NEWS RELEASE April 27, 2022
John Deere forms joint venture with GUSS Automation
Crestmead, Queensland (27 April, 2022) — A JOINT venture between John Deere and California-based technology company, GUSS, will accelerate the development and distribution of semi-autonomous orchard and vineyard spraying technology to assist horticulture producers achieve greater on-farm efficiency.
As part of the collaboration, John Deere will provide access to its global sales channels to support market growth, while GUSS will continue its innovation and product development to best serve the horticultural industry.
John Deere Director, Small Tractor & HVC Production Systems, Chris Davison, said the collaboration was the result of a shared vision to deliver technology innovation that will assist permanent crop growers achieve increased productivity and profitability in their businesses.
"As demand for high-value crops grows, we see significant opportunities to help producers be more productive while addressing the challenges such as limited access to skilled labour to operate equipment," Mr Davison said.
"The GUSS team has a deep understanding of high-value crop production systems, as well as strong relationships with customers and a proven track record of deploying innovative technology, while both companies are committed to developing pathways to grow more food using fewer resources."
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John Deere has announced a joint venture with orchard and vineyard spraying technology company, GUSS.
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John Deere Australia and New Zealand Production Systems Manager, Stephanie Gersekowski.
Using GUSS technology, multiple machines can be remotely controlled by a single operator and use a sophisticated combination of GPS and LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology, vehicle sensors, and software, to move and navigate through orchards and vineyards.
John Deere Australia and New Zealand Production Systems Manager, Stephanie Gersekowski said GUSS had found a way to apply GPS technology in challenging conditions, meaning permeant cropping enterprises could also utilise the same level of exciting innovation now available to broadacre operations.
"Traditionally, using GPS guidance under orchards and vineyards canopies has been challenging, but GUSS has overcome this issue by developing several additional technologies, including vehicle sensors and software to supplement GPS and guide GUSS safely and efficiently through crops," Ms Gersekowski said.
"With the ability for operators to control up to eight sprayers at once, GUSS equipment provides enormous productivity gains to growers by reducing pressure to find skilled operators, while also using fewer resources and reducing costs by eliminating operator error and downtime."
Founded in 2018 and with a staff of approximately 35, GUSS will retain its employees, brand name, and trademark, and continue to operate from its current location.
GUSS technology is not currently sold through John Deere dealers in Australia and New Zealand.
About Deere & Company:
Deere & Company is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, golf & turf, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what's possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including the John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor and See & Spray™ are just two of the ways we help meet the world's increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial. For more information, visit John Deere at its worldwide website at JohnDeere.com or in Australia at JohnDeere.com.au.
Media Contacts:
Stacey Wordsworth
0438 394 371
stacey.wordsworth@bluehillpr.com.au
Hannah Hardy
0421 196 004
hannah.hardy@bluehillpr.com.au
