Wilbur-Ellis buys Mott Grain in North Dakota

Walnut Creek, Calif. — Wilbur-Ellis Co. announced that it has acquired the assets of Mott Grain in Mott, N.D., broadening its footprint in southwestern North Dakota and complementing the company’s aerial application business in the Dakotas and the surrounding region. “Wilbur-Ellis sets a high standard for acquiring profitable businesses with people who have a work ethic similar to ours, which is exactly what we saw in Mott Grain,” said Troy Johnson, Midwest regional manager at Wilbur-Ellis. “They have been a Wilbur-Ellis customer for many years, so we know they are an excellent and capable organization. The acquisition complements our growth plan as we are committed to expanding our grower base and aerial application business in North Dakota.” Mott Grain purchases seed, fertilizers, plant protection, and other branded products from Wilbur-Ellis, and also utilizes the company’s aerial application services. Mott Grain received the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s 2007 and 2008 Dealer of the Year awards, and was also a 2008 recipient of the National Environmental Respect Award. “We’re excited to bring together the synergies of our companies at a time when North Dakota growers, large and small, need a high level of technological service and expertise to help meet the needs of their businesses,” said Todd Kautzman of Mott Grain. “And I believe that Wilbur-Ellis can bring that to the table.” Wilbur-Ellis’ Agribusiness Division generates $2 billion in sales revenue and has more than 160 locations in 25 states throughout the U.S.