RDO launches flagship Tasmanian dealership

Leading John Deere construction and forestry dealership, RDO Equipment, has announced the opening of its new flagship Tasmanian dealership this week which the company says will contribute millions to the local economy by offering employment opportunities and increased servicing capacity.

RDO Equipment’s new CEO, Phil Canning, said the new dealership means big things for local customers, and reflects the Group’s strong commitment to embedding itself in the Australian market.

“We want to show our Tasmanian customers that we’re here for them, and we’ve got their backs,” he said.

“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.”

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,” Canning said.

“It’s great news for Launceston, our existing customers, and new customers right across the state.”

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The new branch expansion also means a bigger focus on career development opportunities, with more training resources available for existing staff and new starters, Canning added.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

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,” Mayor van Zetten said.

“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.

"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.