Lely

Businesses are typically driven by the pursuit of a vision. And trying to understand that vision and how we can help them get there, is what drives DLL. In the case of agricultural supplier Lely, it was DLL’s grasp of financial solutions for robotic milking technology that enabled them to give US dairy farmers exactly what they needed: an affordable way to upgrade their production facilities and improve their lives.

"Introducing new milking technology to dairy farmers has its challenges," says Chad Huyser, Lely’s Director of North American Operations. "Not many of them have pockets deep enough to pay outright for an upgrade of their facilities. And local lenders are often so unfamiliar with the technology that they are uncomfortable accepting the financial risk. However, DLL understands the assistance that family-run farms in particular need, and created a lending agreement that enabled farmers to improve their production, giving Lely a unique position in the marketplace.

A typical example of how Lely and DLL have enabled dairy farmers to transform their production facilities can be seen on a South Dakota farm run by Gary and Amy Blasé. Facing personal health issues and problems with finding dependable hired help, the Blasés needed to make the leap from a traditional milking parlor to what would be a more efficient system for the long term. Chad explains: "With DLL as our financing partner, we could provide a solution that dealt with this bigger picture, something local providers could not have done."

The Blasés met one of Lely’s local dealers at a trade show, where they were introduced to the idea of robotic milking. “They were looking for a partnership they could trust,” says Chad. “It was a huge investment for them, so they needed to have a face and a name behind their financing solution.” Brent Ver Ploeg, DLL’s man on the ground for Lely, has been that person for a number of years and has helped the Blasés overcome two main concerns; adopting advanced systems and the substantial financial commitment needed to install them. “DLL understood the technology, so there was no need for a rebuild on the farm, and their appreciation of the level of risk allowed them to waive payments for the first six months, giving the Blasés critical breathing space to get their new facilities up and running. It was something no other lender could provide,” Chad explains.

And the Blasés represent a growing number of our transactions. Obviously, from Lely's perspective that’s very important, but as the finance partner behind most of Lely’s robotic milking technology in the US, it’s important for DLL too.

The Blasés milk production has increased significantly, they have a happier herd and, as Amy says, they have more time to manage their operations. "We used to be too busy with the labor end of things. Now we’re looking forward to traveling more and spending time with our grandchildren."