Premier Equipment to Operate 10 Locations Across Ontario
Premier Equipment has reached an agreement to acquire W.J. Heaslip Ltd. of Hagersville, strengthening its presence and service reach across Brant and Haldimand counties.
W.J. Heaslip Ltd. has been a trusted provider of agricultural equipment and services for over eight decades. Established by Wilfred Jerome (W.J.) Heaslip in 1940 as a feed mill, the company expanded over four generations to supply farm machinery, hardware, and other essential products. It became an official John Deere dealer in 1986.
“The Heaslip family has proudly served our customers in the Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk community for over 85 years,” says Rob Heaslip, President of W.J. Heaslip Ltd. “It is a bitter-sweet time for us, but we are confident and excited to see the future for our customers and employees carry on in such a positive way.”
This acquisition enhances Premier Equipment’s service network, linking its existing trade areas. The Hagersville location connects its Norwich facility to the west in Norfolk County and its Smithville site in the Niagara Region to the east.
“Bringing the Heaslip’s team and the Hagersville location on board allows us to deepen our coverage and grow service to the customers in the area by leveraging the resources and sharing capabilities that we have been working hard to build over the last number of years,” says Allan Dueck, President of Premier Equipment.
Rob Heaslip highlighted Premier’s commitment to employees and community values as a key factor in the decision. “When we first met about this transaction, we were very impressed how Premier holds employees and community support high as part of their values. We knew that this was going to be a great fit for us.”
Heaslip will remain with Premier, overseeing operations in Hagersville and managing the transition. Subject to final approvals and due diligence, the company will assume operations at the Hagersville site on April 14, 2025.
With this expansion, Premier Equipment will operate 10 locations, employing over 375 staff across Southern Ontario.
Photo Credit: WJ-Heaslip