INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana — Smart Apply, makers of a LiDAR-powered precision spray technology that reduces chemical and water usage in fruit and nut orchards and vineyards by an average of 50% and minimizes airborne drift by up to 87%, is expanding its dealer network with the additions of Papé Machinery in the U.S. and RDO Equipment in Australia.
The two John Deere-certified dealers have 78 locations between them, significantly expanding local, dealer-direct availability of Smart Apply’s Intelligent Spray Control System. Smart Apply’s dealer network now includes the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Peru and South Africa.
The company says demand for the Smart Apply Intelligent Spray Control System increased in 2022, driven by rising chemical costs, water shortages and/or regulations, and growing recognition of the environmental impact of over spraying. The award-winning system is attractive to growers for addressing these issues and ease of implementation. Sold as a kit, Smart Apply is compatible with most air blast sprayers. The system is operated using an Android tablet and applies chemicals based on the density of individual trees or vines.
"We’re extremely pleased to be represented by Papé and RDO Equipment in Australia, dealers that have earned the business and respect of growers for decades," says Smart Apply founder and chairman Steve Booher. "Growers in the U.S. and Australia are facing powerful headwinds in terms of rising costs, water issues and environmental concerns. They are turning to trusted dealers for technology-based solutions like Smart Apply to keep their operations on track financially and sustainably while continuing to maximize yields. We look forward to reaching more growers through these dealers.”
The Papé Group was founded 1938 when E.C. Papé acquired his first capital equipment dealership in Oregon. Today, Papé is the leading supplier of heavy equipment in the West. In 2011, Papé launched its John Deere-certified agricultural division, which now has 49 locations in California, Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.
RDO Equipment launched as the official dealer partner for John Deere Construction and Forestry equipment in Australia (excluding WA) and operates 29 dealerships across the country. Today, the partnership includes agricultural and turf equipment sold and serviced at 22 locations of those locations. Parent company RDO Equipment has 75 dealer locations in the U.S. and has represented Smart Apply since 2021.
