Governor Mark Dayton traveled today to Jackson, MN for the announcement of AGCO's plans to produce Massey Ferguson and Challenger tractors at the company's Jackson manufacturing facility. AGCO is a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and is the largest employer in Jackson. The expansion will add another 100 full-time manufacturing jobs and support broader economic growth in the local community.

Governor Dayton was accompanied by Commissioners Mark Phillips (DEED) and Dave Fredrickson (Agriculture), as well as State Senator Doug Magnus.

"AGCO's decision to expand in Minnesota is encouraging news for the state and for the region," said Governor Dayton. The most important thing we can do right now is to get Minnesota working again, and this project will benefit southwest Minnesota by providing construction and manufacturing jobs. The fact that AGCO decided to expand in Minnesota, instead of any other location, in large part because of the work ethic of the people here is a testament to all Minnesotans."

Congressman Tim Walz also praised the expansion, saying "AGCO's decision to move jobs from France to Jackson is great news for southern Minnesotans. Bringing jobs back to the heartland is an example of what we can do when we work together to revitalize our local, rural economies. Our best days are ahead and with innovation, a can-do spirit and a strong Minnesotan work ethic we can compete globally for our future."

The Jackson facility currently employs 900 people; today's expansion will add 100 full-time manufacturing and support jobs. The economic impact on the region is even greater-the investment in expanding the facility is expected to create nearly 200 jobs and more than $17.3 million in annual Gross Regional Product to southwest Minnesota, according to studies completed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.