About Us
Built by Farmers. Trusted Worldwide.
Our Roots: Michigan Beginnings
In 1977, Ron and Dianne Gillison, along with Ron’s father Rodney, planted the seeds of Gillison’s Variety Fabrication in Benzonia, Michigan. With Ron’s agricultural degree from Michigan State University and Dianne’s business training from Northwestern Michigan College, they combined their practical knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit to serve the farming community.
Innovation from Day One
Soon after opening their doors, Ron was approached by engineers from Michigan State to build a safer fruit tree hedger. Inspired by a Singer sewing machine’s flywheel, Ron developed a custom drive system, launching our first GVF-designed machine. This was just the beginning of a long legacy of innovation driven by real on-the-farm insight.
Growth with Purpose
Our commitment to solving real farming challenges has helped expand our reach to over 70 countries. We are proud to serve a global community of farmers who rely on our rugged equipment every day.
Recognized by the Industry
In 2001, Ron and Dianne were honored with the Michigan State Horticultural Society’s Industrial Service Award, recognizing decades of innovation and support for the agricultural community.
Generational Strength
Matt Gillison joined the company in 2003, followed by his brother Craig Gillison in 2007. As the next generation takes the lead, Gillison’s remains a proudly family-owned company.
Powered by People: Our Team Today
What sets Gillison’s apart isn’t just what we make—it’s how we think. Our team of engineers, technicians, and field experts collaborate daily to push the boundaries of what farm equipment can do. Whether you’re a small grower or global producer, we apply the same rigorous process to every build. Gillison’s employs over 40 skilled professionals, from technicians and machinists to designers and business staff. We are united by a single mission: to empower farmers with reliable, intelligently designed equipment that makes hard work more productive and sustainable.
Our Promise: We Are Dedicated to Your Success
For over four decades, Gillison’s Variety Fabrication has built more than machines—we’ve built trust, innovation, and a reputation for standing behind every piece of equipment we make.