Cargill has closed on its agreement to acquire the animal feed business of Southern States Cooperative Inc.  The deal was announced in early August and closed on September 22.

Under the agreement, Cargill purchased the assets of Southern States Cooperative’s animal feed business, including seven feed mills and its portfolio of products, brands and customer and supplier relationships.  The other segments of Southern States Cooperative’s business – retail, farm supply, energy, and agronomy – are not part of the transaction.

“The combination of CFN U.S. and Southern States Cooperative’s animal feed business will help us grow with customers and best meet their ever-changing needs,” said Mark Lueking, U.S. managing director, Cargill Feed and Nutrition. “We are excited about this growth opportunity to further demonstrate our commitment to the U.S. animal feed industry.”

The acquisition strengthens Cargill’s distribution and go-to-market capabilities in the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions of the U.S., and provides a pathway for continued growth across the region. In addition to the acquisition, Cargill has completed a long-term supply agreement with Southern States for Cargill to supply its retail stores with Southern States branded feed.

"We believe that our combined business will provide unique benefits to our members and customers," said Jeff Stroburg, President and CEO of Southern States Cooperative, Inc. "We've brought together two best-in-class feed companies to develop solutions to meet their needs.  We look forward to growing the Southern States feed business with Cargill as our partner."

Source: Cargill