Reinke expands Kansas footprint with acquisition of Scott Specialties assets

Reinke Manufacturing, a leading US producer of mechanized irrigation systems, has acquired the industrial assets of Scott Specialties in Belleville, Kansas, including facilities, equipment, and real estate. The deal follows Scott Specialties’ decision to shutter its orthopedic soft goods manufacturing operations.

The acquisition adds a second operational site for Reinke in Belleville, complementing an existing facility and expanding the company’s capacity in precision irrigation technology.

Jim McDonald, president of Scott Specialties, said the decision to close was difficult but framed the deal as a way to preserve jobs. “Our priority was to ensure that employees—many with decades of service—had a path forward. Partnering with Reinke achieves that,” he said.

Chris Roth, president of Reinke Manufacturing, described the acquisition as a strategic move to grow operations and support rural communities. “We value skilled craftsmanship and are proud to integrate the Scott Specialties team into Reinke as we expand our presence in Kansas to better serve global growers,” he said.

The former Scott Specialties workforce is expected to transition into roles related to production, assembly, and engineering within Reinke’s mechanized irrigation division. The expansion underscores Reinke’s commitment to advancing agricultural water efficiency and investing in rural economies.

Headquartered in Deshler, Nebraska, and family-owned since 1954, Reinke is the world’s largest privately held manufacturer of center pivot and lateral move irrigation systems. The company operates in more than 40 countries and has been an industry pioneer in incorporating GPS, satellite communications, and touchscreen controls into irrigation management.