US implement maker Great Plains has bought Lincolnshire firm Simba.

The two companies had been discussing a reciprocal marketing agreement for some months, but it was felt that 100% ownership of Simba by Great Plains would be the most effective way forward for both manufacturers.

Great Plains is the largest non-tractor, privately-owned agricultural implement manufacturing company in the USA. It manufactures a broad line of products including tillage equipment, grain drills, air seeders, planters, trailed sprayers, compact tractor implements and self-propelled mowers.

It manufactures at eight sites in central Kansas. The company employs 1000 people, has 116,000sq m of modern factories, its own finance division and a fleet of 60 articulated lorries. The company also has a strong dealer network across North America and has enjoyed growing success overseas, particularly in Ukraine, southern Russia and Bulgaria.

The acquisition of Simba will add many world-class products to the Great Plains line. Production at the Lincolnshire factory will continue as normal and the UK company will gain wider markets to add to its growing European presence.

Rod Daffern, chairman of Simba, will retire and Guy Leversha becomes managing director. Daniel Rauchholz, president of Great Plains International, will join the Simba board.

Simba’s marketing agreement with German company Horsch will continue until March 2011. Discussions are said to be taking place to ensure a smooth transition to a new distribution agreement after that date.