Grain Systems Inc., a global brand of AGCO, announced today that it has purchased Johnson System Inc., a leading manufacturer of catwalks, towers and support structures based in Marshall, Mich.     

The acquisition includes JSI’s manufacturing operation in Marshall and approximately 70 employees, all of whom will be retained by GSI. Owners Howard and Kathleen Johnson, who founded JSI in 1983, will continue on to assist with the integration process.

“We’re very excited about adding JSI to the GSI and AGCO family of companies as it provides us with new growth opportunities that offer our Dealers system solutions to enhance the productivity, efficiency and profitability of their customers’ operations,” said Tom Welke, senior vice president, GSI, Global Grain and Protein.

“With the acquisition of JSI, we are adding a quality brand with a reputation for excellent products, customer service and responsiveness,” Welke said. In addition to manufacturing catwalks and towers, JSI also produces temporary storage systems, aeration systems, superstructures, decks, stair systems, grain ladders and numerous other agricultural products.

“Although differing in size, both GSI and JSI share the same core values and a common goal to provide top quality global products,” said Howard Johnson, owner and founder of Johnson System Inc. “The acquisition allows JSI to have continued growth, insures long-term sustainability and provides stability for our employees.”

Welke pointed out that JSI’s recent growth has been primarily in the international marketplace, and now with substantial support from GSI and its parent company, AGCO, “We expect continued rapid growth in serving overseas customers.

We’ve partnered with JSI on international projects in the past, and the global reach of our dealer network will greatly increase our ability to more proactively service the needs of the international markets.”

JSI will remain a stand-alone business and will be integrated into the GSI and AGCO operations over a period of time. GSI will look for opportunities to design GSI and JSI product line offerings that create synergies for ease of construction, manufacturing and site layout.

“Our acquisition of JSI supports AGCO’s vision of providing high-tech solutions for professional farmers feeding the world,” Welke added.

ABOUT GSI

Grain Systems Inc. (GSI) is the world’s largest manufacturer of steel farm bins, commercial storage grain bins and grain silos. In addition, GSI offers the most technologically advanced grain dryers in the industry and a large selection of material handling systems including bucket elevators and conveyors, grain bin sweeps and chain loop systems. With more than 40 years of industry expertise, GSI provides a one-stop source for all grain storage, drying, conditioning and material handling needs. http://www.grainsystems.com

ABOUT JSI

Johnson System Inc. (JSI) is a leading manufacturer of catwalks, towers and support structures. In addition, JSI fabricates temporary storage systems, aeration systems, superstructures, decks, stair systems, grain ladders and numerous other agricultural products. Located in Marshall, Mich, JSI has over 30 years of experience in the grain handling business and offers customized products to meet the unique and specific needs of any project. http://www.johnsonsysteminc.com/

ABOUT AGCO
AGCO is a global leader focused on the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery. AGCO supports more productive farming through a full line of tractors, combines, hay tools, sprayers, forage equipment, tillage implements, grain storage and protein production systems, as well as related replacement parts. AGCO products are sold through five core machinery brands—Challenger®, Fendt®, GSI®, Massey Ferguson® and Valtra® —and are distributed globally through 3,150 independent dealers and distributors in more than 140 countries worldwide. Retail financing is available through AGCO Finance for qualified purchasers. Founded in 1990, AGCO is headquartered in Duluth, Ga., USA. In 2012, AGCO had net sales of $10 billion. www.AGCOcorp.com