By Scout Nelson
Farmward Cooperative and Ag Plus Cooperative announce their intent to unify after receiving board approval from both organizations. The planned unification brings together two respected cooperatives that share strong backgrounds in agronomy, energy, and rural service. This step aims to offer long-term benefits for members, employees, and communities across central Minnesota.
Both boards complete a detailed unification study before making their decision. The study focuses on strategic alignment, financial strength, and long-term value for members. After careful review, the boards concluded that joining together is the best strategy for future growth and continued excellence in service.
Under the plan, the unified organization will operate under the Farmward Cooperative name and will support members across several counties. The goal of this partnership is not to change the identity of either cooperative, but to build on shared strengths and improve what they already offer.
“This unification is about creating long-term benefits for the people and communities we serve,” said Dave Kadlec, Farmward Cooperative Board President. “Farmward and Ag Plus share deeply rooted values—putting customers first, supporting employees, and keeping our rural communities strong. Together, we can offer more value, more innovation, and more stability, ensuring that both cooperatives continue to thrive for generations to come.”
The focus of the partnership is on combining resources, increasing operational scale, and improving service—not on restructuring or major operational changes. With greater strength and size, the cooperative will be better positioned to innovate, expand product offerings, and remain competitive in a changing agricultural marketplace.
“This partnership is about doing what’s best for our members,” stated Eddie De Langhe, Ag Plus Cooperative Board President. “Farmward aligns with Ag Plus in values and geography while also bringing meaningful financial strength. Unifying gives our patrons more stability, more opportunity, and more value for their equity. It’s a smart step forward for our cooperative.”
As the member-vote phase begins, both cooperatives commit to clear communication. Meeting dates, FAQs, voting details, and additional updates will be shared soon. Members can follow ongoing information at farmward.net and agpluscoop.com.
Photo Credit: gettyimage-jamesbrey
Categories: Minnesota, Energy, General