Wilbur-Ellis Co. announced on Nov. 10 that it is purchasing the assets of Ripon Farm Service LLC, a full-service agricultural fertilizer and crop protection distributor in Ripon, Calif. Terms of the sale were not disclosed by the two privately held companies, but a statement said the transaction is expected to close by Dec. 31, 2008, and will result in Ripon’s operations relocating and integrating with Wilbur-Ellis’s Manteca and Hughson, Calif., branches.
“Ripon is a major retailer and an important provider with an excellent reputation for delivering high-level service to farming operations in the Central San Joaquin Valley,” said John Thacher, Wilbur-Ellis president and CEO “Joining our two operations in this geography will provide our customers with the best available technology while continuing our strategic goal of acquiring successful organizations and integrating them into our existing business.”
Local reports said most of Ripon’s 30 employees would make the transition to Wilbur-Ellis. “In our industry, employees are the distinguishing factor between competitors, and the employees of Ripon share our customer-focused service model, which will make us stronger in this market,” said Daniel Vradenburg, Wilbur-Ellis executive vice president and leader of the Agribusiness Division. “We are also very pleased to have all of the existing principles of Ripon join our company and continue to serve their customers.”
Ripon handles both dry and liquid fertilizers, crop protection chemicals, and seed, and has bulk storage and custom-blend capabilities for either clear fluid or suspension fertilizers. The company also offers consulting services on pest control and nutrient management for traditional crops grown in the San Joaquin Valley, as well as to the ornamental horticulture, turf, and landscape industries. The company’s primary service area extends in a 60-mile radius from its headquarters in Ripon.
“Wilbur-Ellis is a well respected national market participant and its considerable resources will enhance our customer offering while at the same time allowing us to continue the high level of customer service that has been a hallmark of our business,” said Ripon Managing Partner Bud Den Ouden. “Consolidation is part of the natural evolution of our industry and we are excited about becoming part of Wilbur-Ellis.”