RDO Equipment staff in front of the new dealership in Launceston.
RDO Equipment, Launceston’s local John Deere construction and forestry and Vermeer equipment dealer, has opened its new flagship Tasmanian dealership, creating more jobs and opportunities for customers in the region and across the state. Source: Timberbiz
The new dealership is expected to contribute millions to the local economy through the $8.5M facility, offering employment opportunities and increased capacity to service more machines not only at the new branch, but remotely via its field service division.
RDO Equipment’s new CEO, Phil Canning, says this new dealership means big things for local customers, and reflects the Group’s strong commitment to embedding itself in the Australian market.
Bruce Vandersee (Executive Director, RDO Australia Group), Luke Chandler (Managing Director John Deere AUNZ), George Pitt (Operations Manager – Launceston), Ted Vernon (General Manager of Operations – RDO Australia Group – John Deere & Vermeer) and Mayor of Launceston Cr Albert van Zetten cutting the official opening ribbon.
“We want to show our Tasmanian customers that we’re here for them, and we’ve got their backs. Our investment in this new location signals our support of the sectors that contribute billions of dollars to the Tasmanian economy – agriculture, roads, construction, environmental, landscaping, mining, and forestry sectors – across our two world leading machinery brands, John Deere and Vermeer.
“We now have greater capacity for not only more equipment in stock, but more parts on shelves and service support, all with a real focus on maximising our customers’ uptime,” Mr Canning said.
The new branch has moved 10 minutes down the road from the existing premises on Montague St, Invermay, to Australis Drive, Rocherlea and offers a much larger space for servicing and holding machines and parts.
“The new branch will start with four service technicians, working across six service bays, which we will look to add to over the coming year, along with new sales, parts and admin staff. It’s great news for Launceston, our existing customers, and new customers right across the state.”
The new branch expansion also means a bigger focus on career development opportunities, with more training resources available for existing staff and new starters.
“With a larger footprint in the region, we will be looking to invest more into training and development for our employees, and also investing in a strong apprentice program. We want to be bringing in more up-and-comers and help develop their careers throughout RDO Equipment in these exciting industry sectors.
“It’s so important that we have these training and development opportunities available for every one of our employees, whether you’re at the early stages of your career or well cemented in the role. A larger branch presence will help us bring in the resources to do just that,” Mr Canning said.
The opening of the new branch was celebrated with a Covid-safe event attended by local customers, industry leaders and staff, as well as Mayor of Launceston Cr Albert van Zetten.
“In my time as Mayor, I cannot recall a time of greater economic development in Launceston. Companies such as RDO Equipment are central to helping to re-invigorate the Northern region and we are witnessing unprecedented levels of investment and growth,” Mayor van Zetten said.
“I wholeheartedly congratulate RDO Equipment on the opening of their Tasmanian flagship dealership as well as their commitment to growing not only their workforce over the coming years, but their focus on upskilling their employees – particularly through their apprenticeship program.”
RDO Equipment’s new branch is located at 4 Australis Drive, Rocherlea. To find out more about RDO Equipment and the machinery available, head to www.RDOequipment.com.au
