Equipment dealer associations join forces to strengthen advocacy education and member services across North America
The North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA) and Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) have agreed to merge, with the new organization set to begin operating in January 2027.
The combined organization will operate under the name Associated Equipment Dealers (AED). The merger is designed to bring together the strengths, experience and resources of both associations to provide greater value to equipment dealers and distributors across the United States and Canada.
Industry leaders say the decision was made with the future of equipment dealers in mind. By combining their efforts, the organizations aim to create a stronger voice for members while expanding the programs and services available to support businesses throughout the equipment sector.
"This merger is about putting dealers first and positioning our industry for the future," said Steve Hunt, Chairman of the NAEDA Board of Directors and President of H&R Agri-Power, Inc. "NAEDA and AED each bring strengths to the table. Together, we can preserve what our members value most while expanding what we can accomplish on their behalf. This is about becoming stronger, more effective and more valuable to the dealers we serve."
One of the key benefits of the merger will be stronger advocacy. The unified organization will represent equipment dealers on important industry issues and work closely with policymakers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders across North America. Leaders believe that a larger and more unified association will be better positioned to address challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
The merger also reflects a shared commitment to supporting long-term industry growth. Equipment dealers continue to face changing market conditions, workforce challenges, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations. Through the merger, the new AED intends to help members navigate these changes and remain competitive in the years ahead.
Education and workforce development will remain important priorities for the organization. Members can expect continued access to training programs, professional development opportunities, and industry resources designed to help businesses develop skilled employees and future leaders. Strengthening the workforce is seen as a critical step in ensuring the long-term success of the equipment industry.
"This merger represents an important step toward creating a stronger, more unified voice for the equipment industry," said Marshall Anderson, Chairman of the AED Board of Directors and Executive Vice President of RDO Equipment Co. "By bringing AED and NAEDA together, we can align our efforts, strengthen our advocacy and better serve equipment dealers across North America."
In addition to education, the merged organization will continue supporting dealer-manufacturer relations, industry research, conferences, networking events, and other member services. By bringing together the best programs from both associations, leaders hope to create more opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing throughout the industry.
The merger is also expected to improve efficiency by combining expertise and resources from both groups. This approach will allow the organization to focus on delivering high-quality services while expanding its ability to meet the evolving needs of dealers and distributors.
Industry representatives emphasize that the merger is about preparing for the future. As the equipment industry continues to change, having a larger and more united organization can help members address emerging challenges and capitalize on new opportunities. The goal is not only to preserve the strengths of both associations but also to build new capabilities that will benefit members across North America.
Over the coming months, leadership teams and staff from both organizations will work together to ensure a smooth transition before the January 2027 effective date. Their focus will be on maintaining continuity for members while integrating programs, services, and operations.
For equipment dealers, the merger represents an important step toward stronger representation, expanded resources, and greater industry collaboration. By uniting their efforts, the two associations aim to create an organization that can better serve current members while preparing for the future needs of the equipment industry.
As the transition moves forward, members can expect continued communication and support. The merged organization hopes to create a stronger foundation for advocacy, education, workforce development and industry advancement, helping equipment dealers succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The January 2027 merger marks a significant milestone for the North American equipment sector and reflects a shared vision of building a stronger future through cooperation, innovation and unified industry leadership.
Photo Credit: North American Equipment Dealers Association and Associated Equipment Distributors-logo