A couple of months ago we made the announcement that we had signed a letter of intent to begin a merger study with Farmers Union Cooperative in Ossian, Iowa. Over these last two months, we’ve spent time with their teams pouring through financial records, comparing operational procedures, reviewing accounting practices, meeting with members, and much more. Following this due diligence, it was confirmed that a merger could strengthen our cooperatives by supporting long-term financial stability, enhance employee opportunities, and allow for sustainable future growth. Not just getting bigger, but the opportunity to continue to get better.
Earlier this week the board of directors of both cooperatives voted unanimously to approve the plan of merger, moving the process to the next step of a member vote. In the coming weeks, members of Farmers Union will receive voting materials asking them to support the board’s decision to approve the merger with Premier. Between now and when the ballots are due to be returned by the end of March, we will hold several member informational meetings and other Q&A sessions to help make sure the members of Farmers Union are well informed of the details of the proposed merger. If approved by the members of Farmers Union, they will become members of Premier effective August 1, 2026. A special meeting will be held on March 26 to count the ballots returned by the Farmers Union members. I will share the results with you as soon as I can following that meeting.
With spring just around the corner, our cooperative is preparing for one of our busiest times of the year—spring planting season. This period brings our highest employee count and puts nearly every asset across the organization into service. Unlike many businesses that use their equipment and facilities year-round, our agronomy division has made significant investments in assets that are used intensively for only a few months each year. Because of that, it is critical that everything is fully operational and ready to go when the season begins.
Throughout the winter months, our agronomy operations team has been hard at work inspecting and servicing equipment, preparing new sprayers, trucks, and other assets purchased this year, upgrading technology and precision tools on existing equipment, and completing extensive training focused on proper use and safety. Their efforts help ensure we are ready to meet our members’ needs when it matters most.
At the same time, our crop advisors and administrative teams have been finalizing crop plans and seed orders, wrapping up input financing and nutrient management plans, and hiring and training new team members—including college interns who will assist with field scouting this season. Many have also taken a bit of well-earned time to recharge ahead of what will undoubtedly be long days and short nights. If you are still working to finalize your plans for the upcoming planting season, I encourage you to reach out to one of our knowledgeable crop advisors—they are ready to help.
Preparing for spring is not just about equipment. It is also about having the right people in place to deliver the products and services our members rely on to help feed the world. Each year, we look to fill approximately 100 full and part-time positions across our eleven agronomy locations. These seasonal roles typically last from six weeks to eight months and often involve delivering products to members or directly to the field to keep our custom application equipment running smoothly. If you or someone you know is interested in seasonal or year-round opportunities, please contact Shayla at our Mt. Horeb office or stop by one of our agronomy locations. Hours can be flexible and may be available up to seven days a week. If agronomy isn’t the right fit, we also have opportunities across our other operations, including retail, plant operations, trucking, and administrative and sales roles. Premier is always looking to add quality people to our team.
Thank you for your continued support of Premier Cooperative and its staff. Have a great month and stay safe!
