A Dubuque-based company is expanding its presence in the construction and forestry industry with the acquisition of eight John Deere stores.

McCoy Group announced plans to acquire multiple John Deere Construction and Forestry stores from Erb Equipment Co. The stores are located in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky.

The acquisition is expected to be finished in mid-December, at which point the facilities will begin operating as McCoy Construction and Forestry stores. McCoy Group plans to retain the 200-plus Erb Equipment employees.