Resources previously withheld for machine repair will now be provided.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), along with Illinois, Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, secured a settlement against John Deere in an antitrust suit. Under the terms of this new settlement, John Deere must provide farmers and independent shops with the software repair resources that authorized dealers receive.
The commission’s complaint alleged that John Deere held a monopoly in repair-service markets by withholding repair capabilities from all but its official dealers. The complaint also claimed that the company’s withholding of resources from clients led to delays and increased costs for farmers. Under the agreement, tools will be made available, including the ability to reprogram components, view technical manuals, and access troubleshooting solutions.
FTC Bureau of Competition Director Daniel Guarnera said, “Today’s settlement enables farmers to do what they’ve done for generations—fix their own tractors and other farm equipment—without having to pay an authorized John Deere dealer to do it for them. The settlement with Deere will help lower costs for American farmers. The FTC will continue fighting against anticompetitive restrictions on American consumers’ right to repair.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Director Guarnera as he seeks to protect fair markets for farmers and producers.
- For federal and state officials as they act to ensure farmers’ ability to repair equipment without increased costs.
Sources: Federal Trade Commission
