Deere & Co. reports strong second quarter

John C. May, chairman and chief executive officer, Deere & Co.

Deere & Company reported May 21 net income of $1.790 billion for the second quarter ended May 2, or $5.68 per share, compared with net income of $666 million, or $2.11 per share, for the quarter ended May 3, 2020.

For the first six months of the year, net income attributable to Deere & Company was $3.013 billion, or $9.55 per share, compared with $1.182 billion, or $3.73 per share, for the same period last year.

Worldwide net sales and revenues increased 30%, to $12.058 billion, for the second quarter of 2021 and rose 25%, to $21.170 billion, for six months. Net sales of the equipment operations were $10.998 billion for the quarter and $19.049 billion for six months, compared with $8.224 billion and $14.754 billion last year.

“With another quarter of solid performance, John Deere closed out the first half of the year on a highly encouraging note,” John C. May, chairman and chief executive officer, stated. “Our results received support across our entire business lineup, reflecting healthy worldwide markets for farm and construction equipment. Our smart industrial operating strategy is continuing to have a significant impact on performance while also helping customers do their jobs in a more profitable and sustainable manner.”

Net income attributable to Deere & Company for fiscal 2021 is forecast to be in a range of $5.3 billion to $5.7 billion.

“While the company is clearly performing at a high level, Deere expects to see increased supply-chain pressures through the balance of the year,” Mr. May said. “We are working closely with key suppliers to secure the parts and components that our customers need to deliver essential food production and infrastructure. Despite these challenges, Deere is on track for a strong year and we believe is well-positioned to unlock greater value for our customers and other stakeholders in the future.”