UNITED STATES.NATURAL BEEF COMPANY TO MERGE.
Niman Ranch and its network of U.S. family farms and ranches producing naturally raised meats today announced it will merge with an affiliate of its largest shareholder, Natural Food Holdings LLC.
Following the merger, Natural Food Holdings will own 100 percent of both Niman Ranch and affiliated specialty pork processor, Sioux-Preme Packing, which currently processes all of Niman Ranch’s pork. As a result of this transaction, Niman Ranch will be more efficient, better capitalized and well positioned for continued growth, including further expansion of its nationwide network of family farmers and ranchers.
"Our mission at Niman Ranch is to partner with U.S. family farmers and ranchers that raise livestock humanely and sustainably, and bring better-tasting, natural beef, pork, lamb and chicken to market," said Jeff Swain, Niman Ranch CEO. "Consolidating our ownership under Natural Food Holdings will enable Niman Ranch to achieve certain operational synergies, be more efficient, and ultimately better serve our customers nationwide," added Mr. Swain. Swain said the merger provides benefits on many fronts.
Customers will be able to buy with greater confidence from a financially secure supplier. The Niman Ranch network of U.S. family farmers and ranchers can continue to be paid a premium for upholding the strictest animal-raising protocols in the industry. And Niman Ranch employees will be working for a stronger, more sustainable company, during a time of economic uncertainty.
Niman Ranch will maintain its high standards for animal welfare and sustainable agriculture following this merger. All animals will continue to be fed a 100 percent vegetarian diet, and there will be no use of antibiotics or hormones – ever.
Niman Ranch will continue to work with its network of family farmers and ranchers to raise natural cattle, lamb, pigs and chicken. "Niman Ranch family farmers and ranchers are every bit as committed to raising animals humanely and sustainably today as in the past," said Jeff Tripician, chief marketing officer and executive vice president of Niman Ranch. "As a result of this transaction, our company is now in a better position to continue to support their efforts.."
