CoOps

Strike Ends: Teamsters Ratify New Contract at AMPI Paynesville Facility

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:11:35 GMT

The strike at the Associated Milk Producers Incorporated (AMPI) dairy facility in Paynesville, Minn., has officially concluded. Early Sunday afternoon, members of Teamsters Local 471 overwhelmingly voted to ratify a new contract, bringing an immediate end to the work stoppage that began on Saturday morning.

According to Matt McQuaid, media coordinator for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the ratification marks a successful resolution for the more than 60 workers at the critical cheese processing and shipping hub. The swift agreement prevents a long-term disruption to the Midwest’s dairy supply chain.

End to a Year-Long Deadlock

The ratification follows nearly a year of stalled negotiations and a weekend walkout triggered by what the union described as “unfair labor practices” and a lack of a fair, comprehensive proposal from the company. Prior to this agreement, workers had been operating without a wage increase for 12 months, even as the cost of living continued to climb.

While the specific terms of the newly ratified deal were not immediately detailed, the union’s core demands focused on securing:

Meaningful wage increases: addressing the year-long freeze
Succcessorship projections: ensuring if the facility changes ownership, workers retain their jobs and union contract
Heath care stability: gaining more flexibility and security in coverage.

“The workers secured significant wage increases and language that protects standards if the company is sold or changes ownership, as well as the ability to move into a Teamster health insurance plan which will significantly reduce costs to members,” McQuaid said.

Securing the Cooperative’s Network

The end of the strike is a significant development for the broader AMPI cooperative, which is owned by 685 farm families across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and the Dakotas. These farmers market approximately 4.9 billion pounds of milk annually through a network of six manufacturing plants.

Because the Paynesville plant is a vital link in this multi-state infrastructure — specializing in cheese production — a prolonged strike would have created a bottleneck for the cooperative’s 4.9 billion pounds of annual milk production. The “overwhelming” support for the new contract suggests the agreement successfully addressed the primary concerns regarding job security and fair compensation.

Moving Forward

With the contract ratified, operations at the Paynesville facility are expected to resume normal rhythms. Teamsters Local 471, which represents dairy processing and distribution workers throughout Minnesota, had maintained the strike was a necessary last resort to protect the livelihoods of the workers who keep the Midwest cheese supply moving.

“The employees at AMPI in Paynesville, Minn., stood strong in solidarity to win this strike and ratify their first contract. The employer had pushed them around for far too long, and they had had enough,” Lyndon Johnson, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 471 said. “They will have a voice in the workplace without fear and will be supported by the strongest union in the world.”

As the picket lines disappear, the focus returns to the production floor, ensuring the milk supplied by hundreds of Upper Midwest farm families continues to reach the market without further delay.

Maker of Babybel Cheese Announces Major Expansion in South Dakota

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 21:37:14 GMT

Bel Group has broken ground on a $200 million expansion at its plant in Brookings, S.D., that will double production capacity for Mini Babybel cheese snacks and create about 150 new jobs.

According to the company, the project will increase production at the Brookings facility from about 1.6 million Babybel cheeses per day to more than 3 million once the expansion is complete.

Peter McGuinness, CEO of Bel Group’s North American division, says the investment is aimed at keeping pace with growing demand for convenient, protein-rich snacks in the U.S., which accounts for roughly one-third of the company’s sales.

“If we did not act now, we would be squandering growth and running up against capacity constraints,” McGuinness says.

Consumer interest in higher-protein foods has increased in recent years, a trend companies say has been accelerated by the rise of GLP-1 weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro.

“The product delivers on GLP-1 (needs),” McGuinness says. “We’re getting a definite impact from that.”

Bel sources milk for the Brookings facility from several dairy farms in the surrounding region. Company officials say the expansion will help ensure supply keeps pace with growing consumer demand for dairy-based snack products.

The company operates four manufacturing plants in the U.S. In addition to the Brookings project, Bel recently completed a $140 million expansion at its plant in Nampa, Idaho, which produces GoGo squeeZ yogurt products. McGuinness says the company is focused on growing internally but may eye acquisitions in the future if demand continues to rise.

Founding CEO of Dairy Farmers of America Passes

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:52:37 GMT

Gary Hanman, the founding CEO of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) and a longtime leader in the cooperative dairy world, has recently passed. He served as CEO from DFA’s inception in 1998 until 2005, guiding the cooperative and the broader dairy industry through a period of significant growth and collaboration, according to a company statement.

Before taking the lead at Dairy Farmers of America, Hanman served as CEO of Mid-America Dairyman, where he built a strong track record and earned the respect of colleagues across the dairy industry. His work positioned him as a trusted and respected figure within the cooperative dairy community, known for his ability to navigate complex organizational and market challenges.

In 1998, when four regional cooperatives joined forces to create a stronger national voice for dairy farmers, Hanman was the unanimous choice to lead the newly formed DFA. Under his guidance, the cooperative became the nation’s first truly national dairy organization, establishing a model of collaboration and unity that continues to influence the industry today.

“Gary was probably the only person in the country who could have brought dairy farmers together to form Dairy Farmers of America,” says Randy Mooney, chairman of DFA’s board of directors and a farmer-owner in Rogersville, Mo. “He was a dynamic figure and visionary in his work for American dairy farmers.”

During his years at DFA, Hanman was known for bringing together organizations with different histories and priorities, while keeping the focus on supporting farmers. His approach helped solidify DFA’s role in the national dairy landscape and created long-lasting benefits for dairy producers well beyond his tenure.

Hanman’s work left a lasting mark on DFA and the broader dairy community, helping build a cooperative that continues to support American dairy farmers today.

BelGioioso to Invest $23 Million in New York Facilities

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:53:51 GMT

BelGioioso Cheese, a Wisconsin-based cheese maker, recently announced its plans to invest more than $23 million to upgrade and expand its facilities in Glenville and Campbell, N.Y. According to the company, this expansion will add at least 30 jobs and increase the company’s use of New York-sourced milk by about 100 million lb. each year.

“This decision by BelGioioso to further expand its operations upstate marks yet another chapter in New York’s agricultural success story,” says Governor Kathy Hochul, noting the role dairy farms play in the state’s economy. “New York’s dairy industry serves as a crucial economic engine for our state, and we are grateful to this successful company for its continued commitment to these communities, and to area dairy farmers, who always work hard to help position our state as one of the nation’s top dairy producers.”

BelGioioso, founded in 1979, currently operates 11 plants and produces more than 30 types of Italian cheeses for both retail and food service markets. The company has steadily grown its presence in New York over the past decade, supported by increasing consumer demand for specialty and fresh mozzarella products. Its New York facilities play a key role in that growth, serving as major hubs for production and distribution across the northeast.

The Glenville site has seen continued development in recent years, including a 96,000-sq.-ft. plant completed in 2020 and a distribution center added in 2022. The latest investment will build on that footprint by expanding processing capacity and updating equipment to support new production needs.

In Campbell, the company is updating the former Polly-O plant, which was built in 1938 and acquired by BelGioioso in 2021. The work includes infrastructure improvements, modernizing aging systems and adding new product lines to support future growth. Upgrades at both locations are underway and expected to be finished by late 2027.

New York State agriculture commissioner Richard A. Ball says the expansion will have a direct benefit for dairy farmers supplying the facilities.

“We’re thrilled that BelGioioso has decided to expand their roots here in New York State, growing their operations both in the Mohawk Valley and in the Southern Tier,” Ball says. “This is great news for New York’s dairy farmers, who will be supplying milk to this state-of-the-art processing facility.”

New York has seen several large dairy-sector investments in recent years, including major projects from fairlife, Agri-Mark, and Chobani. Nearly 300 dairy processing plants operate across the state, supported by roughly 3,000 dairy farms that produce more than 16 billion pounds of milk annually.

Hochul has prioritized dairy infrastructure and farm-level modernization in recent budgets, including $34 million over two years for on-farm storage and efficiency upgrades and nearly $82 million for environmental stewardship programs. In June, the state awarded $21.6 million to 103 farms for equipment and infrastructure improvements, with another funding round set for fiscal year 2026.

New York is the nation’s fifth-largest dairy state. Dairy remains the state’s largest agricultural sector, accounting for nearly half of all agricultural receipts.

Lactalis USA to Invest $75M in New York Dairy Plants

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:33:46 GMT

Lactalis USA has announced it will invest more than $75 million to modernize and expand its dairy processing facilities in Walton and Buffalo, N.Y. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the investment as a major win for New York’s dairy industry, the state’s largest agricultural sector.

“By investing in the Lactalis USA facilities and assisting with improvements, New York is retaining hundreds of jobs and adding new jobs, as well as helping to support the region’s dairy farmers,” Hochul says.

Two Projects, One Commitment to Growth
In Walton, Lactalis is investing $15 million to automate and expand cottage cheese and sour cream production lines. The upgrades will boost output by 30% and create more than 20 new jobs. The plant, which produces Breakstone’s products, will also receive infrastructure updates including new fillers, HEPA air filtration systems, upgraded boilers, roofing and lab equipment.

Lactalis USA CEO Esteve Torrens notes that the Walton site plays a critical role in the company’s future.

“This site continues a rich tradition since 1882 of producing Breakstone’s Sour Cream and is essential to strengthening our cottage cheese business in a rapidly growing category,” he says. “We are committed to supporting the communities of Buffalo and Walton as we continue to grow in those markets, and we thank Gov. Hochul and ESD for their support.”

In Buffalo, a $60 million expansion at the South Park Avenue plant includes six 50,000-lb. vats, a new cheese belt system, separators, silos and a robotic palletizer. The facility, which produces Galbani ricotta, mozzarella and provolone, will also increase ricotta output and boosts mozzarella and provolone production by 37 million pounds annually. New energy-efficient technology and remodeled spaces, including a relocated cheese lab, support operations and innovation.

With this project, Lactalis will have invested about $123 million in its Buffalo operations from 2020 through 2027.

Economic Impact Reaches Beyond the Plants
The Walton and Buffalo facilities process more than 800 million pounds of raw milk each year from 236 local dairy farms, helping sustain the region’s agricultural economy.

“The direct impact of Lactalis remaining and growing in Walton and Buffalo is hundreds of cheese manufacturing jobs,” says Hope Knight, Empire State Development president, CEO and commissioner. “But indirectly, the plants also support area dairy farmers by purchasing more than $180 million worth of milk each year.”

To support the expansions, Empire State Development will provide $1.3 million in performance-based Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits, $750,000 for Walton and $550,000 for Buffalo.

State and Local Leaders Applaud the Expansion
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball calls the investment a “win-win,” noting that it creates and retains jobs while strengthening the state’s dairy sector.

“This expansion is great news for the dairy farmers that supply fresh, local milk for the Lactalis cheese manufacturing facilities,” Ball says.

Local leaders echo that sentiment:

Senator Peter Oberacker: “Generational family-owned farms in the 51^st District set the gold standard for dairy excellence nationally, and this investment is a powerful testament to that legacy.”
Assemblymember Patrick Burke: “Lactalis’ expansion secures good-paying jobs, supports local farmers and boosts key sectors of our statewide economy. It’s a big win for South Buffalo.”
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz: “This investment is great news for the Lactalis plant, its workers and all the ancillary workers in the local dairy field who benefit from this expansion.”
Buffalo Mayor Christopher Scanlon: “This $60 million expansion strengthens the connection between our local economy and family-owned dairy farms across the region.”

New York’s Dairy Industry Means Business
New York ranks fifth in the U.S. for milk production and first for yogurt and cottage cheese. With nearly 3,000 dairy farms and 630,000 cows producing over 16 billion pounds of milk annually, dairy remains a key driver of the state’s economy, accounting for nearly half of its total agricultural receipts.

“From Walton to Buffalo, this expansion is creating opportunities, preserving livelihoods and ensuring that New York remains at the forefront of dairy innovation,” says Senator April Baskin. “It’s proof that when we invest in our communities and our industries, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.”

Daisy Brand Breaks Ground on New $676M Iowa Facility

Fri, 23 May 2025 16:48:27 GMT

Daisy Brand has officially broken ground on a new $676 million dairy processing facility in Boone, Iowa, marking the company’s largest expansion to date. The 750,000 sq. ft. plant will focus on producing sour cream and cottage cheese, aiming to meet growing consumer demand for these products.

The facility is expected to create 255 jobs and will source milk from 43,000 cows daily, according to a local news station. State and local incentives totaling over $67 million have been awarded to support the project.

Iowa governor Kim Reynolds highlights the project’s significance locally.

“This nearly $700 million investment isn’t just a number. It represents real opportunity. It means hundreds of new jobs. It means an expanded tax base. It means new momentum for local businesses, schools and family farms,” she said.

Daisy Brand currently operates facilities in Texas, Arizona and Ohio. The Boone plant will enhance the company’s ability to serve customers in the Midwest with locally sourced milk.

“This will be our fourth manufacturing plant across the country, and it represents growth for the Daisy Brand. We’re excited to be part of the community,” said Ben Sokolosky, president of Daisy Brand.

Construction is expected to be completed by 2027, with the facility becoming fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2028.

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Chobani Breaks Ground on $1.2B New York Plant

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 18:57:07 GMT

After announcing last month a $500 million expansion in Twin Falls, Idaho , Chobani is continuing to scale up in a big way — this time back where it all began.

The company broke ground this week for a new $1.2 billion production facility in Rome, New York, marking a major investment in both the future of its business and the state’s dairy industry.

“New York is where Chobani’s journey began. It was the perfect spot to start Chobani 20 years ago, and it’s the perfect place to continue our story,” said Chobani founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya. “Working with dedicated dairy farmers and the resilient community, we built something truly special — something bigger than the food we make. We ignited a movement toward better food made with heart, passion, and only the highest-quality ingredients.”

Chobani’s newest plant will sit on 150 acres at the former Griffiss Air Force Base, an open space that the company plans to transform into a hub of food innovation. The 1.4 million-square-foot facility is expected to house up to 28 production lines, produce more than a billion pounds of dairy products per year and generate over 1,000 full-time jobs.

The facility is also expected to significantly ramp up Chobani’s milk usage, increasing demand from over 1 billion pounds annually to an estimated 6 billion pounds once the site reaches full capacity.

“With our new plant in Rome and our original home in South Edmeston, we’re entering a new dimension, partnering with hardworking people across the heartland of New York to build an ecosystem of natural food production and nourish families throughout the country,” Ulukaya said. “When you invest in people, in local communities, you’re not just building a business — you’re building a future.”

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul framed the announcement as both an economic and symbolic win for the state.

“Through this partnership with Chobani, we’re revitalizing upstate New York’s manufacturing sector one spoonful at a time,” Hochul said. “Chobani has been a major employer in the Mohawk Valley for decades, and this massive new $1.2 billion investment will bring more than 1,000 good-paying jobs to Oneida County — the largest natural food manufacturing investment in American history.”

The plant is also being welcomed by New York’s agricultural leaders, who see it as a full-circle moment for a company that started with local roots and grew into a national brand.

“This is tremendous news for our state and for our dairy farmers, who will be supplying milk to this state-of-the-art processing facility,” said New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. “Chobani has long been a part of New York’s world-class dairy industry, and this feels like a real full-circle moment to welcome them to another region in our state.”

New York’s dairy industry is the largest sector in the state’s $8 billion agriculture economy. Home to nearly 3,000 dairy farms and producing 16.1 billion pounds of milk annually, New York is the nation’s fifth-largest dairy producing state. It also leads the country in the production of yogurt, sour cream, cream cheese and cottage cheese.

“Dairy farmers are the beating heart of Upstate New York and this massive new facility and 1,000 new jobs will help support so many family farms across the state,” said U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer. “New York is proud that Chobani calls it home and more people will be enjoying their yogurt that comes from New York dairy farms made here in the Mohawk Valley than ever before.”

At this time, it is unclear as to when the New York plant will be in operation. However, construction work on the Twin Falls expansion has already commenced and is slated for completion within a year.

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Hilmar Cheese Welcomes Its Third CEO in Four Decades

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:45:59 GMT

Hilmar Cheese Company, a name synonymous with excellence in the global cheese manufacturing industry and a leading supplier of whey ingredients, is poised for a new chapter. On July 1, 2025, Greg Schlafer will step into the role of president & CEO, bringing with him a wealth of experience and an impressive track record of leadership in the dairy sector.

Schlafer’s Background
Before his appointment at Hilmar, Schlafer served as the president & CEO of Foremost Farms USA for nearly six years, a position that involved steering the operational and strategic direction for one of the foremost suppliers of cheese and dairy ingredients.

His educational credentials come with an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota. Schlafer’s professional journey includes notable roles such as vice president of food group sales & marketing at J.R. Simplot Company, president of Lamb Weston at ConAgra Foods, Inc., and vice president & general manager at General Mills’ Bakeries & Foodservice Division.

A Thorough Selection Process
Jim Ahlem, chairman of the board, commented, “The board spent a great deal of time interviewing and vetting many qualified candidates for this position, and Greg stood out among them. He brings extensive experience in the cheese and ingredients markets, working with dairy farm families, and an impressive leadership style that is a good fit for the Hilmar culture.”

Adding to his notable achievements, Schlafer has been actively involved on the boards of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, the National Milk Producers Federation, and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. His dedication to food security and education is evident from his board service with Project Success and the North American Millers’ Association.

Building on a Legacy
The announcement follows the news that current CEO David Ahlem will step down after almost a decade leading the company and a total of 22 years with Hilmar Cheese Company. His lasting impact on the company will continue as he transitions to a board adviser role.

Schlafer expressed his admiration for his predecessor, saying, “David’s stewardship of the company these past ten years has been a true inspiration and I’m delighted to continue the journey to achieve Hilmar’s vision.”

A Vision for the Future
Schlafer’s excitement for the new role was palpable. “I have long admired Hilmar Cheese Company, a market leader in the cheese and ingredients space, for their vision, growth and sharp focus on technology and innovation. I’m eager to build upon our great relationships with employees, owners, dairy farmers and customers,” he shared.

As Hilmar Cheese Company prepares to welcome only its third CEO in 41 years, the organization looks forward Greg Schlafer’s leadership, marked by continued dedication to innovation and quality.

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Monarch Tractor Teams Up with DFA to Offer Members Discounts on Electric MK-V Dairy Tractor

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 21:25:33 GMT

Monarch Tractor recently announced it is teaming up with Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), giving DFA members access to exclusive savings on the MK-V Dairy tractor—the first 100% electric, driver-optional tractor built specifically for dairy tasks like feed pushing.

With this new deal, DFA members can snag a discount through the co-op’s Member Savings Network. According to Monarch Tractor, the MK-V helps cut down on diesel costs, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and can even act as a mobile power source for farmers in the field.

“We’re thrilled to bring Monarch’s innovative technology to DFA’s member-owners,” says Praveen Penmetsa, CEO and co-founder of Monarch Tractor. “Industry partnerships are a core tenet of Monarch’s farmer-first philosophy, and our MK-V Dairy tractor aligns perfectly with DFA’s commitment to helping farmers operate more efficiently and profitably.”

Through its commitments to sustainable and responsible farming , DFA is furthering its goal in helping dairy farms and their communities thrive by connecting farms to valuable energy efficiency initiatives and resources through their Farm Services division. The MK-V Dairy tractor supports these efforts.

“We are pleased to partner with Monarch Tractor to bring their cutting-edge MK-V Dairy tractor to our farmer-owners,” says Kaitlyn Cherny, DFA Energy Program Manager. “This collaboration not only provides significant savings but also enhances our farmers’ ability to optimize labor resources and improve productivity. At Dairy Farmers of America, we are committed to supporting our members with innovative solutions that drive efficiency and sustainability on their farms.”

DFA members can check out the details and grab their discount by logging into the DFA member portal.

A New Chapter Begins for AgSource Cooperative Services

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:42:05 GMT

AgSource Cooperative Services is transitioning into an independent cooperative entity with Dan Diederich stepping into the role of chief executive officer. The cooperative is leveraging the momentum it gained as part of the URUS Group LP since 2018 to continue delivering innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its members and customers.

Leading with Experience
“As an independent cooperative, we’re eager to build on the strengths that have made AgSource a trusted partner for dairy farmers and the greater agriculture industry for over 65 years,” says Dan Diederich, CEO of AgSource.

Diederich, a seasoned dairy farmer and former president of AgSource’s Council, brings a wealth of experience and firsthand knowledge to his new role. He is set to guide the cooperative’s strategic direction, working alongside a team of experienced senior leaders to ensure continuity and provide a strong foundation for the future.

Commitment to Quality and Service
“AgSource has a long history of serving members and customers with high-quality data, lab services and insights. Since its inception, AgSource’s mission has centered around providing solutions that improve decision-making. We’re energized to continue carrying that legacy forward for our members and customers today and for many years to come,” Travis Clark, AgSource Council president shares.

Focus on Comprehensive Services
AgSource remains dedicated to offering comprehensive dairy herd improvement (DHI) services. These include test day sample collection, laboratory analysis and dairy records processing, along with agronomic testing and consulting services. While its headquarters will stay in Madison, Wis., AgSource will continue operating from six laboratory locations across Wisconsin, Iowa and Nebraska.

Looking Ahead
The transaction that solidifies AgSource’s independent status is expected to be completed by May 1, 2025. With its specialization in laboratory testing and value-added dairy management information, AgSource has established itself as a leader in agricultural and environmental laboratory analysis and information management services. It remains one of the few full-service DHI providers in the country, committed to increasing research and development in improved management decision tools. By working collaboratively, AgSource aims to benefit its members, customers and the agriculture industry as a whole.

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Arla and DMK Group Announce Major Merger, Creating Europe’s Largest Farmer-Owned Dairy Co-op

Arla and DMK Group Announce Major Merger, Creating Europe’s Largest Farmer-Owned Dairy Co-op

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 18:29:14 GMT

Two of Europe’s largest dairy cooperatives are joining forces. Arla Foods and Germany’s DMK Group recently announced plans to merge, forming the continent’s largest farmer-owned dairy cooperative, representing more than 12,000 dairy farmers throughout the European Union.

The merged co-op will operate under the Arla name and be headquartered in Denmark, according to a company press release. Arla CEO, Peder Tuborgh, will lead the new company, which is projected to bring in €19 billion (about $20.8 billion) in annual revenue.

“This merger is a natural continuation of our strong collaboration to the benefit of consumers, our farmers and their milk price,” Tuborgh says. “DMK Group is the largest dairy cooperative in Germany and a very attractive partner that shares our core values. This merger is a natural continuation of our strong collaboration to the benefit of consumers, our farmers and their milk price.”

DMK’s CEO, Ingo Müller, who will join Arla’s executive management team, notes that the merger is a chance for the joint cooperatives to build more market resilience and reach new customers.

“Arla has established itself as a key player in the dairy industry, and by partnering up we will have a strong and attractive branded and private label product portfolio for all our customers,” Müller says. “Through Arla’s global reach we can access consumers and customers beyond our current geographical reach as well as strengthening our business resilience. Our complementary strengths, both in business and mindset, will enable us to keep advancing in dairy technology and innovation, while also providing a strong home for farmers.”

The merger comes at a time when milk volumes across Europe are projected to decline. According to both companies, the proposed merger aims to create a more commercially resilient entity through a diversified product portfolio and broader market presence. The combined cooperative is expected to be positioned to navigate evolving market conditions and consumer demands.

While the business plan was officially announced April 8, approval from both co-ops’ boards is still required with votes scheduled for June. Regulatory clearance is anticipated by the end of 2025.

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Organic Valley Makes History with First Female CEO, Shawna Nelson

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:00:00 GMT

Organic Valley, the nation’s largest organic, farmer-owned cooperative, has named Shawna Nelson as its next CEO, effective March 28. Nelson, a Wisconsin native with nearly two decades of experience within the co-op, has grown from intern to executive, demonstrating a deep commitment to Organic Valley’s farmers-first mission.

Nelson, who grew up in Wisconsin’s Driftless Region, started with Organic Valley in 2005 and has since held key roles in marketing, sales analysis, recruitment, employee relations, field operations, and dairy pool management. Her broad experience within the co-op has given her a well-rounded understanding of both farm-level challenges and cooperative strategy.

She steps into the role as Jeff Frank departs to become CEO of Monogram Foods. During his tenure, Organic Valley increased pay prices for organic family farms, strengthened its financial position by cutting debt in half, and secured the #1 branded market share in organic dairy.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” Frank said in a company press release. “I’m leaving humbled by the work we’ve done, grateful for the relationships I’ve made, and with a greater appreciation for the organic movement and organic family farms.”

Farmer and Board President Dave Hardy acknowledged Frank’s contributions and voiced confidence in Nelson’s leadership.
“Jeff’s achievements were remarkable, and we are enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead,” Hardy said. “The Board chose Shawna because of her demonstrated strong leadership, understanding of the farmer membership, and connection to the employees. She has shown dedication to the mission and to organic food, and with her vision will lead our farmer-owned cooperative forward.”

Nelson, who holds a business degree from UW-Stevens Point, lives in La Farge, Wisconsin, with her husband and son.

“I am deeply honored to build on the momentum developed through Jeff’s leadership and step into the role of CEO,” she said. “The dedication and passion of our employees, board, and farmer member-owners inspire me every day. I look forward to working in collaboration across the cooperative to build on our successes and continue to serve our mission now and for generations to come.”

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From Farm to Boardroom: Leading with a Farmer’s Heart

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:54:20 GMT

In the ever-evolving landscape of the dairy industry, leadership that genuinely understands the grassroots level is invaluable. Allan Huttema embodies this spirit in his role as the CEO of Darigold, a title he has held for a little over a year. His journey from being a dairy farmer to leading a complex cooperative highlight a unique blend of hands-on experience and strategic vision.

Transition Rooted in Experience
Huttema’s transition to the CEO position of Darigold in April 2024 wasn’t abrupt. His association with the company spans over a decade, first as a board member, then as chairman of the board for three years before being named as the interim CEO in December 2023. A dairy farmer in Idaho and a dedicated member-owner of the Northwest Dairy Association (NDA) for more than 25 years, Huttema brings a producer’s perspective to the executive decision-making table.

“When the board asked me if I would serve as Interim CEO, I said I would do it. As a dairy farmer myself, I know how important it is to have Darigold be successful and vibrant to serve as the marketing and processing arm of our co-op,” Huttema says. This sentiment underscores his commitment not just to the company but to the broader community of dairy farmers. He aims to preserve the way of life that farmer-owners, including himself, have dedicated themselves to.

Bridging Distances
Huttema’s role isn’t confined to an office in Seattle. He actively commutes between Idaho and Seattle to stay attuned to the nuances of Darigold, Inc. This marketing and processing subsidiary of the Northwest Dairy Association represents nearly 300 family-owned farms across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana, and handles approximately 10 billion pounds of milk annually. It’s a responsibility Huttema embraces with a deep sense of duty.

“The longer I did it, the more the board thought it was a good idea. So about four months in, they asked if I would do it,” he shares, reflecting on his transition from interim to permanent CEO.

Empowering Growth
A critical aspect of Huttema’s leadership focuses on empowering his employees and equipping them with the resources necessary for success. One of his first initiatives as CEO was establishing a weekly performance scorecard to review progress, address challenges, and ensure alignment with company objectives.

Understanding and leveraging the potential of his team has pleasantly surprised Huttema.

“The most surprising part of my job is really understanding just how much my employees care about their job and about the company,” he admits, highlighting the dedication and passion embodied by the Darigold team.

Overseeing 1,800 employees, Huttema profoundly understands the value of the milk check. He shares exciting plans for a new processing plant in Washington expected to be completed by early May 2025, aiming to enhance the company’s growth in volume and value.

“A large portion of our business is in Washington state,” he notes. “We won’t have to move that milk out of the region anymore to the west side of Washington, so for the company, this is very exciting.”

Looking Ahead
Huttema confidently addresses foreseeable challenges, such as the expected decline in cooperative membership over the next five years, reassuring stakeholders that the milk supply will remain steady.

“Actually, I think it’ll grow,” he expresses optimistically.

Trade is another key subject on Huttema’s radar.

“I think trade generally concerns me. A new administration, or any administration change, is always a concern,” he shares. “Trade is significant for us as a company because we export many of our products.”

Despite concerns, Huttema sees strengths domestically. “The consumer market domestically is strong, and butter is on trend.”

Southeast Asia remains one of their largest markets for powder, with Japan being a big market for cheese and Mexico for powders, Huttema notes.

Through his journey and vision, Allan Huttema continues to steer Darigold towards growth and resilience, honoring the legacy of family-owned farms and embracing the future challenges and opportunities within the dairy industry.

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New York Dairy Company Plans Big, $120M Expansion

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Byrne Dairy, a New York dairy company located in Syracuse, is moving forward with a $120 million expansion of its manufacturing facility in Cortlandville, aiming to add nearly 250 new jobs through four development phases.

According to the plans submitted this month by the Cortlandville Planning Board, the next step (Phase 2A) of the project will include 26,000 square feet of production space and three new stainless-steel silos. This expansion should be completed within six months of the plan’s approval.

Upon the completion of Phase 2A, Phase 2B will also bring major enhancements to the facility – adding nearly 75,000 square feet of new production space to support increased manufacturing capacity. The expansion will also include the construction of a dedicated truck access road, improving logistics and streamlining transportation. This phase is expected to cost $24 million and create 84 jobs.

Lastly, Phases 3 and 4 will expand the facility with over 150,000 square feet of new processing and batching space. These phases, contingent on favorable economic conditions, are expected to be completed within 12 months of construction commencement. Together, they represent a projected investment of $86 million.

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Schreiber Foods Announces New Expansion to Missouri Cheese Plant

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 18:04:39 GMT

Schrieber foods has recently announced that it is making a major investment to its existing plant in Carthage, Missouri. The project includes a state-of-the-art, 168,000-square-foot production facility that will enhance Schreiber’s process-cheese operations and meet growing demand in the United States. In addition, the $211 million investment is expected to create 150 new jobs.

“We’re thrilled to continue our growth in Carthage,” said Ron Dunford, President & CEO of Schreiber. “This expansion underscores our commitment to innovation, quality, our customers and the Carthage community, as we work to do good through food in everything we do.”

The impact of Schreiber’s expansion extends beyond its own operations, as local leaders recognize the positive ripple effects it will have on the Carthage community and economy.

“Carthage appreciates Schreiber Foods’ continued investment into our community with this new production facility and the employee growth that comes with it,” said Jeff Meredith, Chief Executive Officer of the Carthage Economic Development Corporation. “We’re excited to partner with Schreiber Foods as we work together to grow the local economy and help provide quality jobs for the community.”

Based in North America, Schreiber is a customer-brand leader in cream cheese, natural cheese, process cheese, beverages and yogurt. Mobilization of construction is expected to begin in January 2025, with completion expected in 2027.

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Lactalis USA Announces Major $55 Million Feta Cheese Plant Expansion in Tulare, California

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 21:00:43 GMT

Lactalis USA recently announced that it will be making a major investment in its Tulare, California facility. This move will allow the company to significantly increase production of Président Feta cheese.

According to the company, this decision comes as feta cheese continues to grow in popularity with American consumers. The $55 million investment creates Lactalis’ largest feta production line in the U.S.

“We are expanding to increase our cheese production capacity at our facility,” said Esteve Torrens, chief executive officer, Lactalis USA, in a company press release. “This investment into new jobs and expanding operations supports our local communities and demonstrates Lactalis’ long-term view for business success in the United States. This expansion helps us meet the growing demand for Président Feta cheese in the United States, which is good news for our retail customers and consumers who continue to choose Président Feta for cooking at home and creating new occasions to enjoy feta.”

This new, 38,000 square foot manufacturing line will bring additional capacity for Lactalis USA feta production in the U.S. at its facilities in Tulare and Belmont, Wisconsin. The company expects the facility to be fully operational in 2027.

Lactalis USA is a subsidiary of Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company and currently helps produce products such as Kraft® Parmesan, Président® Feta, Knudsen® Cottage Cheese and Sour Cream.

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Midwest Dairy Producers Forced to Dump Milk

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 20:19:15 GMT

With much of the Upper Midwest processing capacity maxed out in terms of milk production, finding a new home for milk is not an easy task. Lucas Sjostrom, the executive director of Minnesota Milk shared that Hastings Creamery ability to discharge is shut down for 30 days, as they need to take their waste elsewhere. Sjostrom shares they are continuing operations and are accepting and diverting milk from the same farmers as needed.

“We’ve been working over the past few weeks with the farmers to find alternative markets while government officials have been looking to find a solution to keep the plant open,” he says. “We believe every milk buyer across the Upper Midwest is aware of the situation. Plants are already voluntarily dumping milk on-farm on certain days and even though we have transportation available, most plants cannot currently take the milk even for free.”

Hastings Creamery processes 150,000 lbs. of raw milk each day and purchases it from dairy farmers located in both Minnesota and Wisconsin. A variety of dairy products are under Hastings Creamery label, as well as some private labels for other companies and grocery store chains.

Justin Malone, one of the creamery’s owners, shared that it is a tough time in the dairy industry and some farmers are forced to dump milk because they can’t find any processing plants with the capacity to accept additional milk.

Other Farms Forced to Dump Milk, Too

The reality is that not only Hastings Creamery is impacted by an oversupply of milk on the market. Mitch Thompson owns and operates Thompson Family Dairy in Lewiston, Minn., and is a member-owner of Associated Milk Producers Inc. (AMPI). He shared that he had to dump milk from his herd on June 2.

“The milk hauler picked our milk up and said, ‘Well, I’m taking it to another farm’s field that just chopped rye to dump the milk in the field,’” he says, noting that he still will get paid for that dump milk, but shares the whole cooperative suffers when milk isn’t sold.

Thompson is uncertain on how long dumping milk will continue but shares that he is concerned about the current state of the dairy industry.

“We’re shipping around 70,000 lbs. of milk a day, so I worry where’s all that milk going to go,” he questions. “If they keep dumping the milk, how bad is our [milk] price going to get?”

At the time of the interview, Thompson shared that his farm’s milk was picked up and taken to the plant on June 5.

“It sounded like they were going to get a couple of other different farms and dump their milk like everybody’s taking their turn,” he shared.

Meanwhile, it’s normal business at Thompson Dairy, as cows must be milked every day. Even when the milk is then dumped into a nearby field.

“This is a real kick in the shorts. How long can you keep doing this when the milk price is so low already,” Thompson notes, sharing that he is concerned about the current situation of milk being dumped, as well as low milk prices.

“I just wonder when will things turn around,” he asks.

Flooded Milk Market

Sarah Schmidt, vice president of marketing with AMPI, says the reason producers are having to dump milk is simply because there is currently a flooded milk market.

“There is more milk on the market and fluid milk sales have declined dramatically, especially with schools closing for the summer,” she says. “Those fluid milk sales were there for the past several months and simply are not there now.”

Schmidt comments that milk from outside the Upper Midwest is pushing into the region and displacing typical, seasonal sales. She also notes all AMPI milk receiving plants are running at full capacity.

“The milk produced on member farms is exceeding our processing and marketing capacity,” she says. “The team is working hard to keep milk moving into processing facilities.”

Schmidt says unfortunately they do not see any specific signs as to when the tides are going to turn.

“What we do know is that dairy farmers produce a fantastic product and there is good demand for cheese and butter. I’m hopeful low cheese market prices make their way into the grocery stores, spurring increased sales,” she says.

Hilmar Announces CEO Transition

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 21:16:23 GMT

Hilmar Cheese Company, Inc., one of the world’s largest cheese manufacturers and a global supplier of high-quality whey ingredients, today announced that early next year CEO David Ahlem will step down from his role after almost 10 years at the helm and a total of 21 years with the company.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with an incredible group of owners, employees and dairy farmers for the past 21 years,” Ahlem said. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together.”

Ahlem added that he is looking forward to spending more time with his family next year.

Hilmar is well positioned for the future, said Chairman of the Board Jim Ahlem. “We are grateful for David’s leadership, under which Hilmar has grown to become a leading producer of natural American cheese and whey ingredients worldwide.

“We are delighted we will continue to benefit from David’s experience as he steps into a Board Advisor role next year.”

The board began a search process two months ago and will consider internal and external candidates. “We intend to have a successor in place in early next year to ensure a smooth transition,” Jim Ahlem said.

He added, “Hilmar’s vision remains unchanged: to be the best in the world at efficiently producing functional cheese and whey ingredients at scale.”

David Ahlem attributes Hilmar’s success over the past 40 years to an “exceptional” company culture and way of working together – The Hilmar Way. We have a great working relationship with employees, owners, dairy farmers and customers.

“Hilmar is bigger than any one person. We have accomplished a great deal over the last decade. We are a global leader in the marketplace actively demonstrating the power and promise of dairy to improve lives together. I look forward to watching Hilmar’s forward momentum continue,” he said.

Creating a New Legacy: Prairie Farms Dairy Cooperative Acquires SmithFoods

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 20:14:49 GMT

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc., an Illinois-based dairy cooperative made up of 600 farm families, recently announced the acquisition of the SmithFoods manufacturing facilities in Orrville, Ohio.

“Like Prairie Farms, SmithFoods prides itself on providing high-quality dairy products to its community and being a good neighbor. We are excited to welcome their employees to the Prairie Farms Family of Companies, and we look forward to serving SmithFoods loyal customers with the same exceptional local dairy products and community support they have come to expect,” said Matt McClelland, CEO/EVP of Prairie Farms Dairy. “As a farmer-owned cooperative, we’re always open to exploring opportunities that will return value to our dairy farmers. The SmithFoods acquisition was an easy decision because the Orrville facilities complement our network of dairy plants and expand our Ohio footprint.”

Both companies have a distinguished history of manufacturing a full line of high-quality dairy products, and the collaboration strengthens the farm-to-table values embraced by Prairie Farms and SmithFoods, according to a company press release.

“We are thrilled and grateful to join the Prairie Farms Family of Companies. This represents a significant step in preserving and enhancing the legacies built by our customers, associates, producers, and their families over four generations. We deeply appreciate everyone who has contributed to the success of SmithFoods. By passing the torch to Prairie Farms, we are confident that their commitment to our shared values, community, and industry will ensure the continued success of our business for generations to come,” added Nate Schmid, President and CEO of SmithFoods.

Hiland Dairy Announces Significant New Expansion in Tyler, Texas

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 18:27:31 GMT

Hiland Dairy Foods Co. is strengthening its presence in Tyler, Texas, with a major 90,000- square-foot expansion to its current facility. According to the company, the project will feature advancements in processing, storage and quality control, with the expansion slated to be complete by early 2026.

“This expansion is more than just growth in our physical footprint; it’s a commitment to the future of Tyler,” said Rick Beaman, president of Hiland Dairy, in a company press release. “We deeply appreciate the support we’ve received from the city, and we’re excited to continue providing good-paying, stable jobs for this community for years to come.”

With Texas being one of the top five milk producing states in the country, Hiland states that the new addition will allow the plant to better meet the growing demand for high-quality dairy products across the Lonestar state.

“This investment is not just about expanding our capabilities—it’s about ensuring that Tyler remains at the heart of Hiland Dairy’s regional operations. The project will provide numerous employment opportunities, contributing to the economic stability of Tyler and its surrounding areas,” said Barry Beaman, general manager of Hiland Dairy’s Tyler plant.

The groundbreaking ceremony, marking a new chapter for Hiland Dairy and the city of Tyler, will occur on September 24, 2024.

“This expansion is a testament to our commitment to the community and our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in dairy production,” Barry Beaman added. “We look forward to continuing our legacy of excellence with this new investment.”

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Idaho Cooperative Announces Massive New Expansion, Branches into Ice Cream

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 18:09:12 GMT

Idaho Milk Products, a global leader in milk proteins and sustainable milk processing, recently announced its plans to broaden its business by constructing a $200 million dual ice cream and powder blending facility at its Jerome, Idaho campus.

According to the company, the processor’s entry into the ice cream business comes with a focus on premium indulgent and functional recipes in both bulk and novelty formats, while blending capabilities will support the ice cream business and create capabilities to provide custom formulations to both existing and new customers.

“We have the freshest, best quality cream in the market, and the project was initially born out of the conviction to add incremental value to a portion of that product stream. The inclusion of a blending facility in the new plant creates new ways to service our customers and add to the benefits of our vertically integrated model,” Kevin Quinn, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, said in a company press release.

Idaho Milk Products states that this business venture is a natural extension of its existing model and has the potential to create one of the world’s most sustainable ice cream businesses.

“We work hard every day to maintain our position as a global leader in Milk Protein Concentrates (MPC) and Isolates (MPI),” said Daragh Maccabee, CEO of Idaho Milk Products. “Our commitment to this core business remains. At the same time, we constantly seek out new ways to add value to our milk, always doing so in a way that is sustainable for the longer term. Our vision for this plant is to build on the strength of our existing business, leverage our Milk Innovation Center, the strength of our R&D team and the unique synergies that this business will create.”

Construction of the 183,000 square foot plant will commence within the next two months and should be substantially complete by early 2026 with full commercial production by May 2026, according to John Murphy, Vice President of Operations at Idaho Milk Products.

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Grande Cheese Breaks Ground on Acquired Foremost Facility, Plans New Renovation

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 15:47:18 GMT

A manufacturer of Italian cheese, Grande Cheese Company announced last year that it had acquired the former Foremost Farms cheese plant in Chilton, Wis., furthering its manufacturing capabilities.

Recently, Grande Cheese broke ground for a 60,000-square-foot expansion to the former Foremost plant. Along with the new construction, Grande will renovate 20,000 square feet of the existing facility.

Todd Koss, chief executive officer for Grande, says that over the past several years, they have explored opportunities to develop their manufacturing network.

“The Chilton property will undoubtedly help us meet our obligation to support a growing and thriving business and those who are a part of the Grande family – including producers, foodservice operators and distributors, CIG customers, and stakeholders,” he said last year. “The addition of this facility also continues to build on our commitment to financial security and development opportunities for current and future generations of associates and their families.”

According to the company, construction is expected to be complete in mid-2026. The Chilton facility will be Grande’s third largest plant and will primarily produce mozzarella cheese.

Grande Cheese Company manufactures several lines of cheese for pizzerias and restaurants and provides specialty whey products to international food and beverage manufacturers. They have seven Wisconsin production facilities, including Brownsville, Fond du Lac, Friendship, Juda, Lomira, Rubicon and Wyocena.

New York Dairy Cooperative Plans New $150 Million Expansion

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 19:46:10 GMT

Greek yogurt and cottage cheese are certainly having their moment in 2024. With consumption picking up, thanks to the help of TikTok and other social media channels, dairy companies are taking notice and ramping up production.

According to Buffalo Business First news, Upstate Niagara Cooperative is planning a $150 million expansion in West Seneca, New York, to meet an “insatiable” demand for cottage cheese and Greek yogurt.

The company states that it has proposed a 250,000-square-foot addition to its existing 222,851-square-foot facility and plans to break ground on the expansion later this fall.

Buffalo Business First reports that 203,843 square feet will be devoted to manufacturing products such as milk, yogurt, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Officials say the expansion will result in Upstate Niagara increasing its employment at the West Seneca site by 54%, rising from the current 240 workers to 370 employees there.

“The market data we’re seeing suggests that both cottage cheese and Greek yogurt are growing, and we’re expanding to meet that customer demand,” said Upstate CEO, Kevin Ellis, in an interview with Buffalo Business First. “People are trying to get more protein in their diets.”

Officials say the expansion project should be completed by late 2026.

Daisy Brand Makes Plans to Build New Facility in Iowa

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 16:49:08 GMT

Daisy Brand, a well-known sour cream and cottage cheese manufacture based out of Dallas, Texas, has announced its plans to build a new processing facility in Boone, Iowa .

The Boone City Council unanimously approved the request on Monday for the company to seek to seek state funding as part of a $708-million investment that will bring 255 jobs to the community.

“This project will be immensely beneficial to not only the city of Boone, but also Boone County and the entire central Iowa region,” Mayor Elijah Stines said in a city press release. “I am incredibly excited for the positive economic impact this project will bring and the continued success of Daisy Brands and their impeccable line of dairy products.”

According to a statement released by the city of Boone, the town will also make several infrastructure upgrades to support the project, including making improvements to wastewater facilities, upgrading the lift station, creating an additional water reservoir and more.

Currently, Daisy Brand has plants in Garland, Texas; Casa Grande, Arizona; and Wooster, Ohio.

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Accelerating Efficiency in the Milk Supply Chain

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 13:00:00 GMT

How can we become more efficient? This is a question that not only dairy producers ask, but also many dairy companies evaluate. Recently, at the 2024 Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) Annual Meeting in Kansas City, Mo., Corey Gillins, chief milk marketing officer for DFA, spoke about accelerating efficiency in the raw milk supply chain.

Through a member survey conducted over a year ago, DFA anticipates fewer member farms in the years to come. Tough financial situations unfolding on farms accelerated the pace of farms exiting, and Gillins noted that more than 500 of their member farms exited in 2023. DFA is now planning to have around 5,100 farms by 2030.

Even with the decline in farm numbers this past year, DFA did not see much of a drop in milk production. Gillins pointed out that they anticipate their member’s milk production to increase at a moderate pace going forward.

“There are several factors that will impact that growth and some of these we’ve been dealing with for a while,” he said.

Gillins pointed out that high interest rates and the low heifer inventory will challenge growth, at least for the short term.

“While they will have some impact on us, we do still anticipate some growth,” he said.

Supply and Demand

A unique story is playing out, especially as the Southwest area, like New Mexico, is decreasing in milk production. Gillins questions where Southeast milk will come from, as previously it would come from areas like New Mexico. This means that milk likely will be transported further distances in the future.

“We’re going to be moving more milk further distances to meet the market demands,” he says.

“And we see some of these dynamics, even within areas if you look at the Mideast area and Michigan, where we’re going to continue to see strong growth in milk supply. And yet, if you just go south into Ohio, we anticipate seeing some level of decreased milk supply.”

According to Gillins, more than 1.5 million lbs. of milk per day is being moved out of Michigan and it is unlikely that number will decrease in the future.

Moving Milk Further Distances

Over the next couple of years, Gillins shares that we are going to see an increased demand for more than 50 million lbs. of milk per day.

“Where’s that all going to come from?” he asks, sharing that some of it is going to come from new growth. “And some of it is going to come from milk moving from current processing facilities to these new plants.”

Gillins alluded that DFA’s future milk supply is looking tight, where they will likely be short on milk at certain times which means milk will have to be transported further distances to fill the needs.

“So how do we drive efficiency in the raw milk supply chain when we’re dealing with those dynamics?” he asks, sharing that a more coordinated marketing and logistics plan will be executed locally.

A milk solids optimization plan is in the works at DFA and Gillins says they are looking at balancing efficiency and strategic transportation. While DFA has managed and tracked balancing costs for many years, they now are looking at that number collectively.

Keeping efficiency in mind, DFA is asking questions, like:

How do we better utilize our existing assets?
Where do we have existing capacity that may not be utilized?
What are the product mixes in these plants and are we getting the highest value of products out of these plants that will improve our balance?

When it comes to transportation, DFA spent more than $880 million getting milk from the farm to the plant in 2023. He shares that DFA’s president and CEO, Dennis Rodenbaugh, encouraged 1% improvements. With transportation, the question is how can costs be better managed?

Key Piece

Gillins shares that technology is going to be a key piece and their partnership with Ever.Ag on software solutions will be beneficial. Currently, 43% of their member’s milk is being picked up utilizing a mobile application. Gillins says while there is a cost savings not to deal with a paper trail, the real benefit comes from the data.

“We will have this from every leg of every route that will help us drive efficiency in our business,” he says, sharing that part of efficiency is to make sure trucks are either picking up milk, hauling milk to the plant, or unloading.

“If it’s sitting and waiting, it’s being inefficient,” he says.

As DFA accelerates its raw milk supply efficiencies, they can identify the bottlenecks that can help the cooperative to become better financially, but also more sustainable, sharing how one plant saw a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions.

“This all leads up to how do we become a best-in-class fluid logistics organization,” Gillins says, sharing that standardization is going to be key to their success. “We have to standardize our processes, from milk dispatch to delivery. We have to standardize our data and how we use it. We have to standardize our practices. As we look at the accelerated pace of change in our industry and we look at the technology that’s becoming available to us, we have the opportunity to transform our business and bring more financial value back to our farmer-owners through our raw milk supply chain opportunity.”

Tillamook County Creamery Association President & CEO Announces Plans to Step Down

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 18:31:57 GMT

Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) President & CEO Patrick Criteser announced he will step down later this year. The TCCA Board of Directors has selected David Booth, TCCA’s current EVP of Brand Growth & Commercialization, to succeed Criteser as President & CEO, with Criteser’s endorsement, and in alignment with the organization’s long-standing succession plan.

Criteser has led the farmer-owned cooperative since 2012. Under his leadership, the beloved regional heritage brand has been transformed into one of the largest, most respected and fastest-growing dairy companies in the country.

“Our vision of becoming a premium, multi-category, national dairy brand has been realized, and the cooperative is optimally positioned to thrive well into the future,” said Criteser. “I have accomplished what I hoped to achieve for the farmer-owners of this amazing cooperative, so I’ve decided that the time is right for this transition. Serving in this role has been the greatest honor of my professional career, and I am absolutely certain that our board has chosen the right person to succeed me in David.”

TCCA Chair of the Board Shannon Lourenzo said, “We are so grateful for Patrick’s incredible leadership these past 12 years. Today, we are a $1.3 billion business, and one in four American households buy Tillamook cheese, ice cream and other dairy products. But we’re just getting started. David is a very talented leader and is someone who is well-equipped to continue the cooperative’s growth, which will further strengthen our farmer-owners, create more jobs and advancement opportunities for our employees, and enable us to continue to positively impact the communities where we live and work.”

Lourenzo said Criteser will remain CEO until later this year, while Booth immediately assumes the role of President. Working closely with the TCCA board and executive leadership team, they will implement a thoughtful transition plan to ensure business continuity and success. Upon Criteser’s departure, Booth will move into the role of President & CEO.

Booth joined TCCA in 2015, and has built top-performing sales, marketing, and category growth teams, forged crucial partnerships with retailers nationwide, and crafted Tillamook’s impressive growth strategy. He has wide experience across the company, including having served as interim CFO on two occasions. He has nearly 30 years of executive experience, including 18 years at ConAgra Foods.

“This is an incredible opportunity to work with our farmer-owners who have built this company with a long-term outlook and a commitment to growing the right way,” said Booth. “We have extremely talented and committed employees in every function and location. Our strong culture and organizational momentum are here to stay, and they will enable us to reach even greater heights in the future.”

Jay Bryant to retire as MDVA CEO, Jon Cowell Named Successor

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 17:23:34 GMT

Jay Bryant, CEO of Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative Association (MDVA) announced yesterday he will retire from his position at the end of this year, concluding more than 22 years of leading and 37 years of working for the cooperative. Jon Cowell, current CFO of MDVA, has been named as his replacement by MDVA’s Board of Directors.

“It’s time to let MDVA do what we built it to do – and that is to continuously improve and deliver results back to the family farmers who own us,” said Bryant, who led MDVA through its transition from a raw milk marketing cooperative to a brick-and-mortar cooperative with a respected regional brand – Maola Local Dairies. “It is humbling to look back to where MDVA was 20 years ago and see what we have achieved together by investing in our cooperative. We successfully transformed ourselves to remain relevant in the dairy marketplace and I am confident our nimble approach to business will continue to yield results when I’m gone.”

Bryant’s strategic direction cemented a home for MDVA member milk through the purchase of three additional Consumer Products plants. MDVA’s revenue sales and gross profits have doubled and increased by 150%, respectively, under his leadership. Bryant’s leadership enabled MDVA to become a recognized pioneer on dairy supply chain sustainability – earning more than $77 million for on-farm sustainability initiatives to date.

A native of Boonville, N.C., Bryant grew up on his family’s 70-cow dairy farm. After earning a degree in Agricultural Economics from North Carolina State University he returned to his family’s farm until entering entered the world of milk marketing as a field representative for Carolina-Virginia. By 1997, Jay was named General Manager of Carolina-Virginia, a position he held until the company merged with MDVA in 1999. Jay served as the Director of Milk Marketing at Maryland & Virginia until his appointment as CEO in 2002.

“The Board of Directors extends its deep gratitude to Jay Bryant for guiding us through transformative change and uncertain times like dairy industry consolidation and the pandemic,” said Kevin Satterwhite, President of MDVA’s Board of Directors. “Most importantly we want to praise Jay for his decades of thoughtful leadership. There’s no doubt he will carry a legacy as a transformative figure in the dairy cooperative landscape.”

Jon Cowell joined MDVA as the Chief Financial Officer in 2018. Jon leads all financial aspects of MDVA as well as the Information Technology division. In that time he has renegotiated various banking agreements, monetized redundant assets, led a corporate headquarters relocation, and implemented new payroll systems for both the dairy farmer owners of MDVA as well as employees.

As MDVA’s next leader, Cowell is excited to build upon the foundation that has been established by Bryant and grow the Maola branded business to meet the needs of our customers and consumers. Jon’s vision for MDVA is to grow the Maola branded product portfolio to gain more market share, develop new dairy products and return value back to our member owners. His vision is aligned with the mission of MDVA; to maximize value for our member owners, employees and customers.

Jon most recently served as Vice President and Corporate Controller at Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc. where he worked from 1996 to 2018. Prior to his time at Ocean Spray, Jon served in various roles at Deloitte & Touche, Kraft Food, and Assured Packaging.

Born and raised in Canada, Jon moved to the United States (Boston) in the late 90s after graduating with a degree in Chartered Accountancy from the University of Waterloo. Jon shares four adult children with his wife, Jennifer.

“Jon brings the vision and leadership necessary to lead MDVA forward into its next phase of growth and success,” said Satterwhite. “As our business becomes increasingly more diversified to meet changing consumer needs, Jon’s strategic insight will help us navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. Jon has the full support of the more than 900 dairy farmers who own our cooperative.”