Bomgaars and Tractor Supply are two of the most recognizable names in the farming and agriculture industry, but one question that often comes up is whether Bomgaars owns Tractor Supply. In this article, we will explore the history and ownership of these two companies to answer this question.
The History of Bomgaars
Bomgaars was founded in Iowa in 1952 by Bernie Bomgaars as a small hardware store that sold everything from nuts and bolts to paint and plumbing supplies. Over time, the business grew, and in 1975, Bernie's son, Roger Bomgaars, took over the company and began expanding its inventory to include agricultural products and animal feed. Today, Bomgaars has over 100 stores in the Midwest, with a focus on serving the rural farming communities.
The History of Tractor Supply
Tractor Supply was founded in 1938 in Minot, North Dakota, by Charles E. Schmidt. Like Bomgaars, Tractor Supply started out as a small hardware store, but it expanded over the years to include a wide range of products for the farming and agriculture industry. In 1959, the company was acquired by National Industries, Inc., which helped it grow even further. Today, Tractor Supply has over 1,900 stores across the United States, making it one of the largest farm and home retailers in the country.
Does Bomgaars Own Tractor Supply?
So, does Bomgaars own Tractor Supply? The answer is no. While both companies may have a similar history and product offerings, they are separate entities with different ownership structures. Bomgaars is still a family-owned business, with Roger Bomgaars serving as the chairman of the board. Tractor Supply, on the other hand, is a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange with a board of directors and shareholders.
Their Differences and Similarities
While Bomgaars and Tractor Supply may not be owned by the same company, they do share many similarities. Both companies focus on serving the farming and agriculture industry, with an emphasis on providing quality products and excellent customer service. They also both have a strong presence in rural communities and are committed to supporting the local economy.
That being said, there are some differences between the two companies. For example, Tractor Supply is a much larger company with over 1,900 stores nationwide, while Bomgaars has just over 100 stores in the Midwest. Additionally, Tractor Supply has a wider range of products that includes pet and animal supplies, while Bomgaars focuses more on the hardware and agricultural side of things.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Bomgaars and Tractor Supply may have many similarities and a shared history in the farming and agriculture industry, they are separate companies with different ownership structures. However, both companies remain committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service to their customers, while supporting the local economy and the communities they serve.