BISMARCK, N.D. — Farmers in North Dakota and the rest of the country are monitoring an evolving legal case against a giant equipment manufacturer. They say repair restrictions aren’t the only service headaches farmers encounter.
The Federal Trade Commission last week sued John Deere, accusing the company of an unfairly dominant market share. It says farmers have to rely on Deere’s network of authorized dealers for necessary repairs, driving up costs and creating scheduling delays.
North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne says he hopes this case brings out the facts in securing a resolution. He adds the need for flexibility covers other ground, too…