Research

John Deere

DESCRIPTION
You might say that Deere and Company enjoys having its customers going to seed. The company, one of the world's two largest makers of farm equipment (CNH Global is the other), is also a leading producer of construction, forestry, industrial, and lawn care equipment. It is famous for its "Nothing Runs Like A Deere" brand marketing campaign. While the global financial crisis dented the company's sales in commercial and consumer equipment, Deere's agricultural equipment sales continued strong and remained highly profitable. Deere makes 60% of its sales in North America.

Caterpillar

DESCRIPTION
Building more than cocoons, Caterpillar is the world's #1 maker of earthmoving machinery and a leading supplier of agricultural equipment. The company makes construction, mining, and logging machinery; diesel and natural gas engines; industrial gas turbines; and electrical power generation systems. Caterpillar has plants worldwide and sells its equipment globally via a network of 3,500 locations in 180 countries. Caterpillar offers rental services through more than 1,600 outlets worldwide, and it provides financing and insurance for its dealers and customers. Cat Power Ventures invests in power projects that use Caterpillar power generation equipment. Caterpillar Logistics Services offers supply chain services.