Avery and B.F Avery - why the distinction?

The Avery and B. F. Avery brands are often confused and thought of as one brand. The two were actually independent companies, and share only a name and a color scheme. Our 2007 show had dozens of B. F. Avery tractors, but only one Avery tractor, a huge 1913 tractor resembling a steam traction engine.