BELLEVILLE, Canada - Premier Equipment Ltd., a John Deere dealership group, is set to expand its operations with the acquisition of the John Deere dealership business of Deerhaven Farm and Garden Ltd. The transaction is expected to be finalized on July 31, 2025, pending all necessary approvals and due diligence.
Mr. Ken Morton, Owner and General Manager of Deerhaven, said, “We have a unique and diverse customer base. The business is a real mix of ag, compact construction, lawn and garden equipment. I’m excited for our staff and customers as we join the Premier family. I’ve known the Premier team for years and appreciate their professionalism and dedication. They bring strong resources, and I believe their approach will benefit both our staff and customers.”
Premier Equipment has been the John Deere dealer of record for sprayers and application equipment across central and eastern southern Ontario since 2016. The addition of a Belleville location will strengthen its presence in eastern Ontario, providing more localized support and expanding its overall service capabilities.
As part of the transition, Premier will assume operations at Deerhaven’s existing facility with the current team of employees, ensuring continuity and familiarity for customers. The Belleville site will become Premier’s 11th location, growing its workforce to over 400 employees across the region.
Notably, Deerhaven’s powersports division, which retails Polaris off-road vehicles and snowmobiles, as well as Pricecraft boats, is not included in the acquisition. Morton will continue to operate that business under the name Deerhaven Powersports, which will also remain at the Belleville facility. Both Premier Equipment and Deerhaven Powersports plan to operate independently but from the same location for the time being, with potential for expansion in the future.
Mr. Allan Dueck, President of Premier Equipment, said, “We look forward to continuing and growing the John Deere service offering for customers in the Belleville area. This expansion opens new opportunities for us and allows us to build on the strong foundation that Ken and his team have created.”
The acquisition reflects Premier Equipment’s ongoing commitment to customer support, industry innovation, and regional growth throughout southern Ontario.