Tim Brannon Inducted into 2026 Farm Equipment Dealer Hall of Fame

Longtime Tennessee dealer recognized for his commitment to customers, employees, and community

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Tim Brannon, a 47-year veteran of the farm equipment dealership industry, has been inducted into the 2026 Farm Equipment Dealer Hall of Fame. Brannon, who grew up on a diversified family farm, developed a deep appreciation for agriculture and the machinery that helps feed the world. After starting out working part-time at a local dealership, Brannon went on to co-own and operate B&G Equipment in Tennessee, guiding the business through challenging times like the 1980s farm crisis and a devastating fire in 2023 that destroyed the dealership. Throughout his career, Brannon has been known for his loyalty to his employees, dedication to his customers, and commitment to his local community.

Why it matters

Brannon's induction into the Farm Equipment Dealer Hall of Fame highlights the important role that independent, community-focused dealerships play in supporting farmers and the agricultural industry. Despite facing numerous obstacles over the decades, Brannon's perseverance and customer-centric approach allowed B&G Equipment to not only survive but thrive, serving as a model for how dealerships can weather tough times and remain true to their values.

The details

After graduating college, Brannon had a successful stint as a territory manager for Allis-Chalmers, where he was known for his ability to sign on new dealerships. In 1978, he returned to his Tennessee roots and co-purchased the local dealership that would become B&G Equipment. The 1980s brought significant challenges, including a $600,000 loss in one year, but Brannon navigated those turbulent times by strategically acquiring used equipment at auctions and expanding the business to serve more customers. In 2023, a devastating fire destroyed the dealership, but Brannon immediately vowed to rebuild, putting the needs of his employees first. Throughout his career, Brannon has been praised for his ability to surround himself with talented people, encourage their growth, and foster a culture of loyalty.

  • Brannon started working part-time at a local dealership while in high school.
  • Brannon graduated college in 1975 with an agriculture degree and teaching certificate.
  • Brannon worked for Allis-Chalmers for 3.5 years as a territory manager starting in 1975.
  • Brannon and his business partner purchased the local dealership in 1978, forming B&G Equipment.
  • The dealership fire that destroyed the facility occurred in 2023.

The players

Tim Brannon

A 47-year veteran of the farm equipment dealership industry who was recently inducted into the 2026 Farm Equipment Dealer Hall of Fame. Brannon grew up on a diversified family farm and developed a deep appreciation for agriculture and the machinery that helps feed the world.

Steve Gallimore

Brannon's business partner who co-purchased the local dealership with him in 1978, forming B&G Equipment.

Frank Coles

The store manager at Austin Equipment in Paris who allowed the young Brannon to come in and look up or order needed parts, and later hired him to work part-time.

Gaylon Morris

The parts manager at Austin Equipment who Brannon developed a good relationship with while working part-time at the dealership.

John Johansen

The former Vice President of North American Sales & Service for Allis-Chalmers, who recalled Brannon's success in signing on 6 dealerships in one year's time while working as a territory manager for the company.

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What they’re saying

“I would say that his pathway was much more practical, as he learned what OEMs' thresholds were and then put that to work in his dealership in a way that took care of the customer and his team first, but never forgot the supplier.”

— Eric Raby, Senior Vice President — Americas at Claas (farm-equipment.com)

“Tim has an uncanny ability to read the tea leaves of the market to determine not only when to grow, but when to sharpen focus on the core of the business. My intuition tells me that he and his team made the right decisions for the right reasons, and always with the customer in mind.”

— Eric Raby, Senior Vice President — Americas at Claas (farm-equipment.com)

“He wants the best for his people & he wants the best for his customers, & he's willing to do whatever it takes at the dealership level to provide that...”

— John Johansen, Former Vice President of North American Sales & Service for Allis-Chalmers (farm-equipment.com)

“Tim has taught me the value of giving second — and third and fourth — chances when I'm ready to give up on an employee or situation. He sees the good in people and wants to believe people deserve a little grace.”

— Jennifer Culpepper, Office Manager, B&G Equipment (farm-equipment.com)

“His motto always has been 'Take care of those who take care of you.'”

— Larry Brannon, Cousin of Tim Brannon (farm-equipment.com)

What’s next

Brannon, now 70 years old, has no plans to retire anytime soon. He remains committed to leading B&G Equipment and continuing to support his local community. The dealership is expected to celebrate its 50th anniversary in the coming years.

The takeaway

Tim Brannon's induction into the Farm Equipment Dealer Hall of Fame underscores the vital role that independent, community-focused dealerships play in supporting farmers and the agricultural industry. Despite facing numerous challenges over his nearly five-decade career, Brannon's unwavering dedication to his customers, employees, and local community has allowed B&G Equipment to not only survive but thrive, serving as an inspiration for dealers across the country.