Longtime Farmward mechanics will continue providing repair services locally through independent businesses.
CANBY, Minn. — November 12, 2026 — Farmward Cooperative has reached an agreement to transition its repair operations in Canby and Minneota to longtime employee and diesel mechanic Bryon Drietz, supporting the establishment of Red Iron Repair, a new independent repair business in the Canby area.
In addition, Farmward employee, Seth Johnson will also launch his own business alongside Drietz, by establishing Canby Auto Center.
Both businesses plan to begin serving customers January 1, 2027.
A Strategic Decision and an Opportunity for Local Ownership
After careful consideration, Farmward determined its people and resources are best focused on its core cooperative businesses rather than shop repair and small-engine operations. Drietz and Johnson have represented a majority of the business conducted through the shops, creating an opportunity to support local ownership while helping maintain repair services in the area. The businesses will operate independently and will have no affiliation with Farmward Cooperative.
"These decisions are never easy, especially when they involve employees and customers we've worked alongside for years," said Dennis Schreier, CEO of Farmward Cooperative. "We believe this is the right direction for Farmward and our members. We're thankful for Bryon's and Seth's years of service and wish them success as they take this next step."
What Customers Need to Know
December 31, 2026, will be the final day of Farmward's shop and small-engine operations in Canby and automotive repair operations in Minneota. Beginning January 1, 2027, customers seeking repair services should contact Drietz and Johnson directly.
Farmward's other business operations in Canby and Minneota will continue. This transition applies specifically to shop repair and small-engine operations and does not represent an exit from either community.
For questions about the transition, please contact Justin Kunkel, SVP of Marketing & Retail Business, or Alex Busch, COO. You can reach them by email at Justin.Kunkel@farmward.net or Abusch@farmward.net, or by phone at 507-249-3196.
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About Farmward Cooperative
Farmward Cooperative is a farmer-owned cooperative serving southwest Minnesota with agronomy, grain, feed, energy, and retail, along with ag financing and insurance. Headquartered in Morgan, Minnesota, Farmward exists to advance farming for generations by delivering innovative solutions, trusted expertise, and local service to its member-owners and customers.