Press Releases April 24, 2020
John Deere pays tribute to the farmers who keep the world running in new video
Crestmead, Queensland (24 April, 2020) — A renewed appreciation of the importance of a reliable supply of safe and nutritious food throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has shone fresh light on the valued role New Zealand farmers play in keeping the world running.
John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Peter Wanckel, said John Deere would help to celebrate the unwavering hard work and commitment of agricultural and regional communities through today's release of the 'We're with you every step of the way' video.
"Despite these being such challenging times, it has been truly heartening to see the effort and dedication farmers put into nourishing the world really recognised by everyday New Zealanders as we work through this pandemic," Mr Wanckel said.
"At John Deere, we are extremely proud to be part of this foundational industry and of the partnerships we share with farmers to help them undertake this important work. We want to showcase our appreciation through this short video and by paying tribute to the real people who day in, day out, keep the world running."
Aside from reconnecting the public with where food and fibre comes from, social distancing and restrictions on travel have also shown how technology and innovation are now, more than ever, fundamental to the flow of products through the agricultural supply chain.
"Although they're used to working remotely at the best of times, the required changes which have come from social distancing and other public safety measures have meant farmers, like millions of other businesses around the world, have needed to adapt to new ways of sourcing the parts, equipment and other essentials they need to stay operational," Mr Wanckel said.
"For John Deere this has meant online platforms like Connected Support, which provides remote diagnostics and troubleshooting, have become some of the best ways we can continue to work side-by-side with our customers throughout this pandemic."
Dealers are also on hand to help, and customers are encouraged to contact their local dealership by phone or email to enquire about new products or to discuss their service requirements. Parts can also be purchased online via John Deere Parts.
"We believe in farming and the resilience of New Zealand farmers but also understand conditions can be tough at times," Mr Wanckel said.
"For this reason, John Deere Financial has been working closely with customers suffering financial hardship by offering help, where possible, through the restructure of loans and refinancing to assist with cashflow. Customers who would like to find out more can use our financial assistance form.
"This is such an important time for New Zealand farmers as they prepare for seeding and we want to assure the entire agricultural community John Deere is here to support them wherever we can, both now as we navigate COVID-19 and for the long-term of this great sector."
- To view the 'We're with you every step of the way' video go to https://youtu.be/tGz_zKyqyCo
- For full list of available support go to the John Deere Coronavirus Update Centre
About John Deere:
Deere & Company (NYSE: DE) is a world leader in providing advanced products and services and is committed to the success of customers whose work is linked to the land - those who cultivate, harvest, transform, enrich and build upon the land to meet the world's dramatically increasing need for food, fuel, shelter and infrastructure. Since 1837, John Deere has delivered innovative products of superior quality built on a tradition of integrity. For more information, visit John Deere at its worldwide website at JohnDeere.com in New Zealand at JohnDeere.co.nz.
Media Contacts:
Stacey Wordsworth
0438 394 371
stacey.wordsworth@bluehillpr.com.au
Hannah Hardy
0421 196 004
hannah.hardy@bluehillpr.com.au
