Setting the Record Straight: John Deere Is Not Leaving Illinois
AI-generated content circulating online falsely claims that John Deere is moving manufacturing out of Illinois. That is not true.
John Deere is not leaving Illinois. Our company was founded by John Deere himself in Illinois nearly two centuries ago—and it’s where we continue to invest, grow, and innovate every day.
Illinois Is Where Our Story Began
Illinois isn’t just another location for John Deere. It’s where our story started in 1837 when John Deere built the first self-scouring steel plow in Grand Detour, Illinois. Nearly 189 years later, Illinois remains the heart of our company.
Our worldwide headquarters is in Moline, Illinois, and the state continues to play a critical role in how we design, manufacture, test, distribute, and support equipment for customers around the world. From advanced manufacturing and parts distribution to technology, innovation, and customer engagement, Illinois is deeply woven into everything we do.
We’re also proud of our strong and ongoing presence across Illinois, with multiple John Deere locations spanning communities throughout the state. That includes facilities in:
- Champaign, IL – John Deere Technology Innovation Center
- Chicago, IL – John Deere Fulton Market
- Coal Valley, IL – John Deere Demonstration Site
- Dixon, IL – John Deere Historic Site
- East Moline, IL – John Deere Harvester Works
- Milan, IL – John Deere North American Parts Distribution Center
- Moline, IL – Deere & Company Worldwide Headquarters; John Deere Construction & Forestry Division; John Deere Cylinder; John Deere Pavilion; John Deere Seeding Group
- Rock Island, IL – John Deere Rock Island Distribution Center
Across these sites, thousands of employees support farmers, builders, dealers, and communities in Illinois and around the world. This footprint reflects decades of investment—and a commitment that continues today.
Illinois is where it all started for John Deere. And Illinois is where our legacy will continue.