Factors that affect John Deere dealerships also affect manufacturers that provide the parts for tractors. Low crop prices and high borrowing costs contribute to a declining farm economy.

The Bridgestone tire plant in Des Moines is offering severance packages to about 130 employees, after laying off more than a hundred people last June. The factory makes tires for farm machinery. Local Steelworkers Union president Keenan Bell says the slow down at John Deere factories affects Bridgestone.