JOHN DEERE 60 SERIES COMBINE AWARDED 2004 PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

Released on = November 12, 2004, 6:10 pm

Press Release Author = John Deere (Deere & Company -NYSE:DE)

Industry = Construction

Press Release Summary = JOHN DEERE 60 SERIES COMBINE AWARDED 2004 PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

Press Release Body =John Deere 60 Series Combine-2004 Product of the Year- LENEXA, KS (November 12, 2004) — The John Deere 60 Series Combine recently was recognized by Agri Marketing magazine as the 2004 Product of the Year for its outstanding marketing impact in the agricultural industry.

John Deere participated in the annual Product of the Year program alongside entries from diverse industry sectors. Judged by an independent panel, the criteria for winning was based on market environment, industry recognition, benefit and value to the marketplace, and strategic marketing approach.

"John Deere made a substantial investment in the research and development of the 60 Series Combine in order to deliver on our customers' demand for a more productive and user-friendly machine," says Barry Nelson, public relations manager, John Deere Agricultural Division. "The John Deere marketing and research and development teams followed a collaborative and integrated approach to build a highly innovative product that has been very well received by customers."

As the winner, the John Deere 60 Series Combines were featured in the October issue of Agri Marketing, which included a 12-page insert dedicated solely to discussion highlighting the development and marketing of the product. Nelson says winning Product of the Year provides John Deere with an outlet to thank and acknowledge all of the people who were involved with the overall development, promotion, and retailing of the new combines.

"Agri Marketing initiated the Product of the Year program to showcase successful product-marketing endeavors within our industry," says Bill Schuermann, publisher, Agri Marketing. "Now in its seventh year, it's remarkable to see the level of sophistication in the areas of innovation, market strategy, and creativity in this industry. We're very pleased with the exceptional work submitted to the contest this year and congratulate John Deere on accomplishing a successful launch with the 60 Series Combine."

Ron Moron, product information manager, John Deere Harvester Works, says, "It is rewarding to have Agri Marketing recognize the efforts of so many John Deere employees through the magazine's Product of the Year recognition. The 60 Series truly is the most innovative combine I've seen in the 27 years I've worked at the Harvester Works facility. I know all of the employees involved with the engineering, design, marketing, and manufacturing of the 60 series combine take a lot of pride in this machine and are honored to win this award."

John Deere (Deere & Company -NYSE:DE) is the world's leading manufacturer of agricultural and forestry equipment; a leading supplier of equipment used in lawn, grounds and turf care; and a major manufacturer of construction equipment. Additionally, John Deere manufactures engines used in heavy equipment and provides financial services and other related activities that support the core businesses. Since it was founded in 1837, the company has established a heritage of quality products and services providing performance that endures to customers worldwide.

Web Site = http://www.JohnDeere.com

Contact Details = For More Information, Contact:
Barry E. Nelson
Ph: 913-310-8324
Fax: 913-310-8394
E-mail: NelsonBarryE@JohnDeere.com