CropLife’s Post

🚜 CropLife Retail Week: CHS/West Central Merger, Farm Bill Progress, and U.S. Bridge Study Results This week, CropLife Media Group Editors Eric Sfiligoj and Lara L. Sowinski delve into another significant merger in the ag retail sector, progress on the much-anticipated Farm Bill, and a nationwide study on the safety of U.S. bridges impacted by cargo ships. From the consolidation of CHS and West Central Ag Services to the latest legislative movements, this edition covers the key updates you need to know. Read the full discussion by Eric and Lara for an in-depth look at these critical developments. How are these changes affecting your business and operations? 👉Exclusive Details: https://ow.ly/XywG50Sa64n What impact do you think the new Farm Bill will have on your operations? 🌾🛠️ #Agribusiness #AgRetail #CropProtection #PlantHealth

*Historic day as Arrabawn Tipperary Co-operative Society formed*   Merger will create one of Ireland’s largest co-ops   *Thursday 7 November 2024*: A new force in dairying was confirmed today with the creation of one of the largest co-operatives in Ireland following the approval by members of the Arrabawn and Tipperary societies merger. The historic votes, held in Nenagh and Tipperary and conducted independently by the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS), today saw the required 75% plus vote in favour of the merger, with 94% of both memberships giving their approval. Ireland’s newest co-op will be known as Arrabawn Tipperary Co-operative Society, but its formal establishment will require regulatory and other approvals, including from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission. The new merged dairy and agri-trading co-operative which will be owned and controlled by over 4,800 members, with more than 1,400 farmers supplying almost 750 million litres of milk annually. The co-op will have projected annual turnover exceeding €700 million. The merger will bring substantial benefits for the new co-op, positioning it as a strong competitor both nationally and internationally within Ireland's agricultural sector. Arrabawn and Tipperary have complementary product offerings, routes to market and well-invested and technically advanced manufacturing facilities that will help deliver a sustainable milk price for milk suppliers. The neighbouring societies will combine a similar deep heritage, values and a culture committed to supporting the long-term sustainable future of their milk suppliers, agri-traders, members, employees, customers and their families, while maintaining their commitment to the sustainable development of the Irish dairy industry. The approval of the merger was welcomed by the chairs of the merging co-ops. Edward Carr, Chairman of Arrabawn and the new Arrabawn Tipperary Co-operative society said, “This is a historic day for dairying in one of the great dairying heartlands of our country. It’s, in particular, a great day for the members and suppliers of Arrabawn Tipperary Co-operative society who have come together to not just create a new force in dairy processing but to consolidate their own futures with this decision.” Chairman of Tipperary William Ryan said, “The overwhelming support to merge our neighbouring societies makes good business sense for Tipperary and Arrabawn milk suppliers. We will have a valuable product mix with streamlined processes which is key to maximising milk price return. The resultant new Society will have the scale, facilities and financial strength to meet the challenges of the changing dairy industry.”

Forever Cheese to Acquire Virginia Packing Assets 📢 Both companies have a shared commitment to quality, with long-established relationships with customers and suppliers, making this acquisition a natural fit for growth. How this acquisition aims to meet rising demand: https://lnkd.in/g26Scz5D #FoodManufacturing #FoodNews #BusinessGrowth #BusinessDevelopment

M&A in CPG is making a comeback! Lassonde has recently acquired Summer Garden Food (operetade by The Zidian Group), further strengthening its position in the North American specialty foods market. While the spotlight might be on the high-profile Mars and Kellanova deal, impactful yet smaller-scale acquisitions are happening worldwide. Here are the key insights from this strategic move: - Acquisition Price: Lassonde acquired Summer Garden Foods for approximately $237.2 million in cash. An additional contingent consideration of up to $45 million may be paid over the next three years if certain financial targets are met. - Acquisition Financing: The acquisition was financed primarily through Lassonde's Canadian revolving credit facility, with a small portion coming from cash reserves. - Strategic Importance: This acquisition strengthens Lassonde's position in the North American specialty food market, particularly in the pasta sauces segment. - Summer Garden’s Financials: Summer Garden generated sales of $148 million in the 12 months leading up to May 2024. - Ownership Structure: Lassonde owns 90% of Summer Garden, with the remaining 10% owned by an entity controlled by Pierre-Paul Lassonde. An interesting development to watch: Summer Garden Foods is a well-known co-manufacturer in the USA. What will happen to existing contracts in case Lassonde is a direct competitor of the brands they currently work with? #lassonde #summergardenfood #cpg #comanufacturing #growinco

Big moves in the food industry! Mars Inc. is reportedly in talks to acquire Kellanova, the newly named entity spun off from Kellogg Co.'s North American cereal business. 🌍🥣 The deal, if finalized, would not only expand Mars' portfolio into new categories but also enhance its capabilities in the plant-based and health-focused food segments. What impacts do you think this acquisition could have on the food industry? How might it influence consumer choices and industry trends? https://lnkd.in/guXsxCVQ #MergersAndAcquisitions #FoodIndustry #BusinessStrategy #Mars #Kellanova #FoodTrends

🐔 LDC's Strategic Expansion into Poland with Konspol Acquisition French poultry giant LDC has recently announced the acquisition of the Konspol brand and its manufacturing plant in Nowy Sącz, Poland, from agri-food giant Cargill. Although financial details remain undisclosed, this move marks a significant expansion for LDC as it branches into the ready-meals sector via its Polish subsidiary, Drosed Group. 🍗 The Significance of This Deal The Konspol factory, which reported a turnover of €35 million ($38 million) in 2023 and employs around 600 staff, will continue operations under LDC's management. This acquisition not only supports local employment but also diversifies Drosed Group’s offerings to include products like breaded items, burgers, and sandwiches. 🍗 Strategic Growth and Industry Impact This acquisition enhances LDC's production capabilities, enabling it to meet increasing demand for convenience foods. It reflects LDC’s broader strategy of diversifying its product lines and strengthening its market position globally. This move is part of a series of strategic expansions, including talks to purchase salad producer Pierre Martinet. 🍗 Looking Ahead Set to finalize by year-end, this acquisition is a clear indicator of LDC’s commitment to growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions, positioning it well within the international market. For industry professionals, this underscores the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in the competitive food sector. For more summarized news like this, subscribe to our newsletter: https://lnkd.in/dVuEVwYj [Source: https://lnkd.in/dGb-w7gs ]

With the recent green light from Kellanova #shareholders, an exciting shift is underway in the #snacking world. The approved @Mars #acquisition marks not just a major business move but a pivotal moment that could shape the future of the industry. For #consumers, this could mean an expanded offering of beloved brands, like #Pringles and #Cheez-It, and innovative approaches to #better-for-you #snacks. As demand for wholesome, yet satisfying options continues to grow, it’s thrilling to think about the possibilities this merger might bring. https://lnkd.in/emmJDhVf

Big moves in the food industry! Mars Inc. is reportedly in talks to acquire Kellanova, the newly named entity spun off from Kellogg Co.'s North American cereal business. 🌍🥣 The deal, if finalized, would not only expand Mars' portfolio into new categories but also enhance its capabilities in the plant-based and health-focused food segments. What impacts do you think this acquisition could have on the food industry? How might it influence consumer choices and industry trends? https://lnkd.in/gcSfjETQ #MergersAndAcquisitions #FoodIndustry #BusinessStrategy #Mars #Kellanova #FoodTrends

With the recent green light from Kellanova #shareholders, an exciting shift is underway in the #snacking world. The approved Mars Wrigley #acquisition marks not just a major business move but a pivotal moment that could shape the future of the industry. For #consumers, this could mean an expanded offering of beloved brands, like #Pringles and #Cheez-It, and innovative approaches to #better-for-you #snacks. As demand for wholesome, yet satisfying options continues to grow, it’s thrilling to think about the possibilities this merger might bring. https://lnkd.in/eWVi5y2k

Campbell Soup is setting ambitious goals for growth through 2027. The company is targeting a 2-3% organic sales increase, 4-6% EBIT growth and 7-9% EPS growth. A $250M cost-saving initiative is on the horizon to improve margins and fuel reinvestment in the business.    After several key acquisitions in recent years, Campbell is now turning its attention to organic growth. A big part of this is the rebrand to “The Campbell’s Company,” which signals a fresh approach to innovation. The goal is to strengthen the Snacks and Meals & Beverages divisions with new products and better distribution.    At Loki Group, we’re always excited to see companies focusing on organic growth. Campbell’s strong internal cash flow is a great example of how investing in core operations can drive growth and increase value for shareholders.   #GrowthStrategy #BusinessInnovation #Rebranding #LokiGroup