Accelerated Genetics and Select Sires Inc. announced June 22 that they will be joining forces as a unified cooperative, effective July 1.

At a special delegate meeting held June 22, Accelerated Genetics delegates voted in favor of uniting Select Sires Inc. with Accelerated Genetics, formally finalizing the agreement recommended by both cooperatives' boards of directors.

Related: Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics to unify

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

The official agreement states that Select Sires will acquire all Accelerated Genetics assets, integrating employees and independent sales representatives in each of their geographic member organizations. The decision to merge coincides with an already collaborative business relationship between the two cooperatives that began in 2001 under which each company shares ownership of World Wide Sires Ltd., which serves as the international marketing arm for both companies in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Oceania.

By working together, we will be stronger, said David Thorbahn, Select Sires president and chief executive officer. 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." He added that working with the Accelerated Genetics team gives the organization "the ability to expand genetic research, technical support, service and programs with people who are passionate about the dairy and beef industries.

Accelerated Genetics and Select Sires are built on the same cooperative business principles and share similar operating structures. Each organization stems from innovative breeders who had a common vision to move the dairy and beef industries forward. Both cultures value the input of their member-owners and recognize the importance of their guidance in driving the need to produce superior genetics and outstanding reproductive programs.

The unification of both cooperatives 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, the announcement said. Producers can expect to continue working with highly qualified, passionate individuals who know and understand the cattle breeding industry.

Originally posted here:
Accelerated Genetics votes to join with Select Sires - Feedstuffs