Urbana, Ill-The shareholders of Illini FS Inc. on Aug. 21 approved a merger with Growmark Inc., Bloomington, Ill. The deal had been announced earlier this year. “Our merger with Growmark represents a new, progressive cooperative partnering model which will provide opportunities for additional efficiencies and benefits to our farmer-owners,” said Illini FS Board President John Reifsteck. “Our partnership with Growmark will strengthen and preserve the cooperative presence that has successfully served farmers in the Illini FS territory throughout our history.” The merger becomes effective on Sept. 1, 2006. The Illini FS retail division will operate under a local board of directors consisting of nine producers selected by the current Illini FS board of directors. Jerry Coffey will be the division general manager at Illini FS and will report to Dennis Farmer, Growmark vice president, member services. Illini FS provides farm supply products and related services to farmers in the five East Central Illinois counties of Champaign, Clark, Douglas, Edgar, and Vermilion.
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