Wisconsin Ag Connection - Accelerated Genetics Members Approve Sale to Select Sires

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Accelerated Genetics Members Approve Sale to Select Sires
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 06/23/2017

Select Sires will officially purchase the assets of Accelerated Genetics on July 1. That's after members of the former Tri-State Breeders Cooperative, headquartered in Baraboo, voted in favor of unifying with the Ohio-based company during a special delegate meeting on Thursday.

Accelerated Genetics President and CEO Janet Keller told Wisconsin Ag Connection that although the vote was not unanimous, support by the delegates to join forces with Select Sires was overwhelming positive.

"These farmer-members had an opportunity to hear the pros-and-cons of the deal and got an update on how the transition will come together," Keller said. "Ultimately, they felt the decision to work together is in the best interest of our customers given the challenges of the dairy industry."

Board Chair Scott Dahlk adds that the idea to merge the two AI companies was recommended by both of the cooperatives' boards of directors in early June.

"Accelerated Genetics has been searching for a partner who could enhance the business and move it forward," Dahlk said. "Joining forces with Select Sires is a positive move for both member-owners, and producers worldwide."

As part of the approved agreement, Select Sires will acquire all Accelerated Genetics' assets, integrating employees and independent sales representatives in each of their geographic member organizations.

"By working together we will be stronger," says Select Sires President and CEO David Thorbahn. "The value and expertise gained by joining the people from both organizations allows us to offer our customers a broader genetics program in addition to an outstanding animal health product line."

A joint press released noted that the unification of the companies will create a 'well-rounded genetics program and solution-based animal health care product line that will fit the needs of dairy and beef producers worldwide.' Thorbahn adds that customers can expect to continue working with highly qualified individuals who know and understand the cattle breeding industry.

Accelerated Genetics celebrated its 75 anniversary last year. In 2013, the co-op made an acquisition of its own when it purchased Nebraska Bull Service. And it entered into a 50-50 partnership with Select Sires in 2001 when they bought World-Wide Sires.

Prior to the recent downturn in the dairy industry, the cooperative was honored by Governor Scott Walker as Wisconsin's top Agricultural Exporter of the Year in 2011.

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