The Iowa Association of Business and Industry partnered with MidWestOne Bank to announce this year’s Coolest Thing Made in Iowa: the ZR5-1200 self-propelled baler, manufactured by Vermeer Corporation in Pella. Vermeer was crowned the winner at ABI’s Taking Care of Business Conference in Davenport on Wednesday.

In addition to selecting a winner, this competition is meant to draw attention to Iowa’s manufacturing industry and the careers available throughout the state. Iowa’s manufacturing industry contributes roughly $38 billion to the economy annually and employs over 225,000 Iowans.

Nominations were open to the public and announced mid-April. Nominated products represented manufacturers from across the state. After an initial popular vote round and a bracket-style tournament, four finalists competed for the Coolest Thing Made in Iowa trophy.

Vermeer was founded in 1948, headquartered in Pella, Iowa and a family-owned and -operated company. Vermeer revolutionized haymaking with the ZR5-1200, the world’s first self-propelled baler that reduces the steps needed to make a bale and maximizes productivity through zero-turn capabilities.

“My grandfather was a farmer. He founded Vermeer on a spirit of innovation by simply searching for a better way to do hard work. Receiving this award is incredibly special as it indicates his legacy continues on,” said Mindi Vanden Bosch, Vermeer Vice President of Operations. “I am proud of the cool equipment we build and even more proud of the team who designs, builds and supports it. I’m also proud to have been nominated alongside an incredible line up of cool things made in Iowa. Thanks to ABI for bringing awareness to everything made in our great state.”