Stephen W Moore LTD formally acquires Johnston Gilpin & Co

Johnston Gilpin & Co was founded in 1968 by Johnston Gilpin, Cyril Johnston and Donn McConnell as the first John Deere dealer in Northern Ireland. Donn McConnell took ownership in 1991 and his son, Randal, joined the company in 1992 followed by his brother, Neale, in 1995. The company has successfully expanded over the years and now with two depots and 37 staff has built a reputation for service, commitment and straight dealing throughout the province and island of Ireland.

Randal McConnell said: “As with any history in Northern Ireland, this decision was neither easy nor straightforward but ultimately, we are doing what is best for our fantastic staff and to allow the John Deere brand to expand, we are confident that with all members of staff transferring, that the level of service and backup will remain unchanged. The McConnell family would like to sincerely thank all members of its loyal staff, many of whom have grown up with the company and also to thank all the customers who have supported us over the past 54 years.”

SW Moore Dealer Principal Stephen Moore said: “We have known the McConnell family and the Johnston Gilpin group for many years and the whole team has done a fantastic job in serving agricultural and turf customers in the territory. It is clear we share the same core values around delivering unrivalled customer service so I am confident the level of service that you, our customers are accustomed to will continue under the SW Moore LTD Banner.”

John Deere’s Division Sales Manager, Brian D’Arcy, added: “The acquisition is a great fit for our dealer network and the new, larger business – backed up by the support from John Deere – is an extremely strong proposition for our customers in Northern Ireland.

“It would not be possible without the fantastic commitment of Donn, Randal, Neale and all the McConnell family which has played an enormous role in establishing and cementing the John Deere brand in Northern Ireland.

“As we look forward to a new era, we thank Johnson Gilpin & Co’s staff for their valuable and longstanding contribution to the industry”