Whatcom Farmers Cooperative (WFC), a full-service ag co-op based in Lynden, Wash., announced on April 6 that its voting members have approved a merger with CHS Inc. The proposal will become effective in July 2015, pending appropriate due diligence by both organizations and approval by the CHS board of directors.
"I want to thank the producers of Whatcom Farmers Co-op for turning out and making a clear statement that we should move forward with the merger. A lot of time and effort by the board of directors went into the decision to bring this proposal to our members," said WFC Board Chairman Jeff Bedlington. "WFC will remain a locally based company, staying true to its roots. We are excited for the opportunities that CHS and WFC can provide for our employees and customers."
WFC was founded in 1941 as Whatcom Grange to serve the growers of Washington’s Whatcom County. The company began operating under its present name in 1982, and currently provides agronomy, energy, and retail products and services out of Washington locations at Lynden, Bellingham, Fairhaven, Ferndale, Blaine, and Nooksack. Don Eucker, WFC CEO, will continue as general manager after the merger. WFC said customers should expect a smooth transition, including continuity of staff at all locations.
"CHS continually looks for strategic opportunities that strengthen our ability to help our farmer-owners grow their businesses," said Lynden Johnson, CHS executive vice president. "We’re very pleased to be able to build on the already-strong local expertise for producers in this trade territory."