The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Western Division, has ruled that an antitrust suit may continue against John Deere regarding right to repair of its agriculture equipment. Judge Iain D. Johnston issued the order on November 27, 2023.
In his opinion, Johnston referred to the company’s founder as “an innovative farmer and blacksmith who—with his own hands—fundamentally changed the agricultural industry.” He said if the allegations of restrictions to repair are true, “and that’s a big if,” he wrote, “then the Court assumes [Deere] would be deeply disappointed in his namesake corporation.”
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Deere had moved to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that the groups bringing the suit lacked antitrust standing and failed to “plausibly allege relevant markets.” In 80 pages of legal analysis and explanation, the judge held that standing does exist. His opinion stated that the plaintiffs have indeed alleged constitutional and antitrust standing, relevant markets, and the necessary requirements in the complaint.
The motion to dismiss the lawsuit was denied.
