The Growth and Expansion of Steffes Group:
The Past, The Present, and The Future
April 2023
Steffes Group, Inc. has been a trusted name in the auction industry for over 63 years, selling farm, construction, transportation equipment, and real estate at public auction. What began as a small business founded by Robert Steffes has grown into a nationally recognized leader in the industry. Today, Steffes Group operates out of multiple locations across North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Colorado, with representatives serving the Midwest and Rocky Mountain Region of the United States. The company's success can be attributed to its core values of honesty, integrity, and professionalism, which guide their team of professionals. As Steffes Group continues to expand its services and geographic reach, it remains committed to providing its clients with the highest level of service and expertise.
The Past
Robert “Bob” Steffes started his business, Bob Steffes, Auctioneer, in Arthur, ND, in 1960. He began selling farm equipment and livestock at auctions, building a reputation of honesty and integrity for himself. Bob had his very first farm auction on April 26th, 1960. The Felix Rode Farm Retirement Auction had just over 40 pieces and grossed $5,600!
In 1972, Bob had the privilege of being named the World Champion Livestock Auctioneer and continued to build a loyal customer base by consistently providing high-quality services and maintaining strong relationships with buyers and sellers. In 1980, Bob’s son, Scott Steffes, joined the family business, and the company officially rebranded to become Steffes Auctioneers. In 1984, Steffes Auctioneers incorporated and moved all operations to Fargo, North Dakota.
In 1992, the first annual AgIron Event was held at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo, ND (continuing to this day over 30 years later!) In 1994, Bob Steffes sold his company, Steffes Auctioneers, Inc., to his son, Scott Steffes, and in 1995, Scott went on to win the International Auctioneer Championship.
The early 2000s brought great transformation for the company, including the introduction of online bidding at live auction events and the addition of a second office in Litchfield, Minnesota, in 2006. Steffes Auctioneers began conducting online-only auctions in 2009, and this was only the beginning of the growth of technology in the auction industry.
In 2010, Steffes Auctioneers office relocated from Fargo and opened a new office in West Fargo, North Dakota. In 2012, Steffes Auctioneers, Inc. acquired Richard Realty & Auction, a family-owned company in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, and in 2013, the company rebranded once again to Steffes Group, Inc. In 2016, the company added its fourth permanent location just southeast of Sioux Falls, SD, in the town of Larchwood, IA.
Looking back on the company’s history, it can be seen how it has grown and evolved over the years. From humble beginnings as Bob Steffes, Auctioneer, to becoming Steffes Auctioneers and then Steffes Group, Inc., the company has built a reputation for providing exceptional service and maintaining strong relationships with its clients and customers. They have also adapted to changes in technology to stay ahead of the curve. But their story doesn’t end there. Let’s take a look at where Steffes Group, Inc. is today!
The Present
Steffes Group has undergone significant growth and expansion in recent years, cementing its position as a nationally recognized leader in the auction industry. The company's experienced team now operates out of seven locations across the Midwest and Rocky Mountain Region, offering an expanded range of services beyond its roots in farm and land auctions. The company has developed a team focused on construction equipment auctions, providing clients with expanded auction services and options for both selling and buying quality equipment.
Steffes Group has recently broken ground on two new permanent locations in Williston, North Dakota, and La Salle, Colorado, and plans to build an additional office on its yard in Mason City, Iowa. With over 600 auctions conducted each year and a team of more than 135 professionals, Steffes Group is committed to upholding its core values of honesty, integrity, and exceptional service.
The Future
Steffes Group is well-positioned to continue its growth and expansion in the years ahead. As the company looks to the future, it aims to be one of the largest agriculture, construction, and real estate auction companies in the nation, offering new and innovative services to its clients. With a focus on technology and innovation, Steffes Group aims to improve the auction experience for both buyers and sellers, utilizing the latest tools and techniques to provide exceptional service. Looking forward to a complete website overhaul, expanding their geographical footprint, and adding valuable members to their team, there are lots of bright things in the future for Steffes Group. The company's commitment to excellence and its core values will continue to drive its success, as it expands its geographic reach and offers new services to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
If you want to be a part of the future of Steffes Group, see a list of all open positions here!
