New Holland History. Who Owns New Holland Agriculture?

One of the most recognizable and respected brands on the market of agricultural and construction machinery is New Holland. Equipment manufactured by New Holland includes tractors, balers, combine harvesters, haying tools, forage harvesters, self-propelled sprayers, seeding equipment, utility vehicles, grape harvesters, hobby tractors, and more. The company’s interesting history dates to 1895 and is full of twists and turns. Today, let us take you on a journey back to the past, where we will trace the history of the legendary leader in the agricultural machinery manufacturing market. 

Where and when was the New Holland company founded? 

The New Holland Machine Company started in 1895 as a small blacksmith shop and horse barn owned by Abe Zimmerman. Its name derived from the city it operated in, which was New Holland, Pennsylvania. What started as a retail business of engines, quickly turned into a manufacturer of agricultural products due to customer complaints. Farmers were unhappy about the stationery engines sold because of their tendency to freeze during chilly winter months. Abe, who wanted to help the farmers, devoted his time to developing his own design of a freeze-proof engine. It turned out to be a bull’s eye that marks the beginnings of the New Holland company.  

After almost 50 years of successful operation on the market of agriculture, and ranching, in 1947, the name of the company was changed to Sperry New Holland, as it was taken over by the Sperry Rand Corporation. The move brought Sperry Rand Corporation an enormous success as, in the same year, they introduced the haybine mower conditioner, which revolutionized hay harvesting technology and remained in production for more than 70 years. 

The year 1964 brought another acquisition for the Sperry New Holland who invested in Claeys, a Belgian threshing machines manufacturer. During this period (1975), Sperry New Holland developed the world’s first twin-rotor combine. 

From Ford, through Fiat to CNH 

In 1986, the ownership of New Holland was acquired by the well-known now automotive company, Ford. Few know that Ford also has a history in agricultural machinery production. In the 1980s Ford was one of the leaders of tractor production, being responsible for such innovation as a three-point hitch. 

Another popular automotive brand also present in the agriculture machinery industry was Fiat, who by the end of the 1970s had built over a million tractors. In 1991, this Italian leader decided to purchase an 80% interest in Ford New Holland. From then on, New Holland became a global full-line producer of agricultural machinery. Not long after that, in 1999 Fiat New Holland and Case Corporation merged marking the beginning of CNH. 

Further acquisitions and partnerships 

The period of partnerships and acquisitions had, however, only just started for the New Holland company. There are a few momentous events that we must mention: 

1. Acquiring Bizon – in 1998, New Holland acquired a Polish manufacturer producing harvesting machines for cereals, maize, sunflower seed, rape seed, and other crops. Thanks to the Bizon acquisition, New Holland gained access to 60% of the Polish combined harvester market and sales in Ukraine, Belarus, Latin America, and Pakistan. 
2. Joint venture with Türk Traktör – in 1998, New Holland signed a joint venture with the largest industrial conglomerate in Turkey. The factory had already been manufacturing Fiat tractors since their joint venture with the Fiat Group in 1967. 
3. Joint venture of January 1, 2002 – it was signed between CNH, Shanghai Tractor, and Internal Combustion Engine Corporation. As a result, Shanghai New Holland Agricultural Machinery Corporation Ltd was established. Nowadays, it is still one of the biggest joint ventures for agricultural machinery in China. 

Who produces New Holland tractors now? 

Nowadays, CNH still owns New Holland and produces New Holland tractors. Over the years, it has become a leader in the global production of agricultural and construction machinery. The company manufactures farm tractors, harvesters, farm equipment, materials handling equipment, and other machines used in crop production, forestry, transportation, and construction. CNH Global is based in the Netherlands, and supplies equipment to 70 countries. It has plants in Europe and North America. 

What is New Holland today? 

What is so magnificent about the New Holland tractors that they have become so successful? The secret to the company’s success lies in the design. There is nothing else that the farmers dream of than powerful and reliable equipment helping them complete everyday tasks. New Holland tractors have various features and models that answer your needs regarding maximizing land’s efficiency. 

The company is not only a leader in manufacturing, but it also recognizes the market’s need for farm equipment makers along with farmers to lead the fight against climate change. That is why New Holland is also a leader in clean energy, develops prototype hydrogen and methane power for tractors and actively participates in an energy-neutral farm. 

If you are searching for a high-quality, and easy-to-use tractor at an affordable price, New Holland tractors have a variety of features that will make your farming easier and more enjoyable. 

Get high-quality equipment for your New Holland tractor 

Excellent quality equipment does not have to come at a high price. That is why if you own a New Holland machine, we have an exceptionally good offer for you. Skidsteers.com’s shop carries a variety of tractor attachments, parts, and components that are compatible with New Holland brand makes. All equipment we sell is made of American steel, right here, in the USA, and guarantees high efficiency and durability. Get in touch to discuss the compatibility with the specific model of your New Holland machine. We will answer all questions you might have.