ADM and Alltech Launch North American Animal Feed Joint Venture Combining Industry Expertise

Two of the world’s most recognized names in agriculture and animal nutrition are joining forces in a move set to reshape the North American feed landscape. ADM, a global leader in sustainable agriculture and innovative food solutions, and Alltech, a pioneer in science-driven animal nutrition and health, have signed a definitive agreement to launch a joint venture that brings together their complementary strengths, longstanding expertise, and shared vision for the future of animal agriculture.

The joint venture, which is expected to officially launch in the first quarter of 2026 following customary regulatory approvals, will unite key feed assets from both companies under a single structure designed to deliver enhanced value and innovation to livestock, equine, backyard, and leisure animal markets across the United States and Canada.

A Powerful Combination of Feed Operations

Under the terms of the agreement, Alltech will contribute its well-established U.S.-based Hubbard Feeds business and its Canadian Masterfeeds operations. Together, these represent an expansive footprint of 18 feed mills in the United States and 15 facilities in Canada, offering strong regional coverage and an extensive customer base. ADM, meanwhile, will add its 11 U.S. feed mills to the venture, creating an unparalleled manufacturing and service platform.

The ownership structure will give Alltech a majority stake in the new company, though governance will remain balanced, with equal board representation from both ADM and Alltech. This arrangement underscores the cooperative spirit of the joint venture and ensures that decision-making reflects the combined expertise and perspectives of both organizations.

Shared Values and a Common Mission

In a joint statement, the companies emphasized that this venture is more than a financial or operational alignment—it is a mission-driven partnership.

“As the animal nutrition industry continues to reshape itself to support a growing global population, Alltech and ADM are bringing together passionate teams, proven products, and shared values to ensure enhanced advantages for our customers,” the statement said. “We’re evolving with purpose to offer an industry-leading range of products and solutions for livestock, equine, backyard, and leisure animals.”

The companies highlighted that their relationship dates back decades, with ADM having been Alltech’s very first customer. This long-standing connection has fostered mutual trust and respect, paving the way for deeper collaboration. By aligning under a joint venture, the two companies intend to build on this foundation and accelerate growth in the animal feed sector.

Complementary Strengths

The new joint venture will combine ADM’s scale, operational efficiencies, and advanced logistics with Alltech’s science-based approach to animal health and nutrition. Both companies bring significant research and development capabilities, along with robust product portfolios already well-recognized across North America.

ADM’s leadership in agricultural processing and its global supply chain infrastructure will give the new venture unmatched access to raw materials, distribution networks, and supply chain resilience. Meanwhile, Alltech contributes decades of research into animal nutrition, feed efficiency, and natural solutions that improve animal health and performance.

“Our customers know they can depend on us to partner with them, offering personalized service and nutrition expertise to tailor products and solutions that will give them an edge, whether in the market or the show ring,” the companies said. “Now our new joint venture is going to be able to offer even more: broader capabilities, more products, and new innovative solutions, all delivered with the relationships and service our customers have come to expect.”

Scope and Reach

With 44 feed mills across the U.S. and Canada, the joint venture will establish one of the most comprehensive production networks in the region. This footprint is expected to not only ensure consistent supply but also enable greater regional customization of feed products to meet diverse customer needs.

Alltech will retain several of its existing business units outside of the joint venture, including Ridley Block Operations, Ridley Feed Ingredients, and its portfolio of specialty feed ingredients. These retained businesses will continue to operate independently but will act as partners and suppliers to the new joint venture, enhancing collaboration and product diversity.

Similarly, ADM will keep its Canadian feed operations, as well as its U.S. premix and additive businesses. These assets, while not part of the joint venture, will continue to support the new company by supplying products and expertise that extend its capabilities.

Driving Innovation for the Future

The animal nutrition industry is in the midst of rapid change, driven by growing global demand for protein, shifting consumer expectations around sustainability, and the ongoing search for ways to improve feed efficiency and animal welfare. By pooling their resources, ADM and Alltech aim to meet these challenges head-on, offering an expanded suite of products and services that support both economic performance and environmental stewardship.

The companies believe that their combined strengths will make the new venture a leader in advancing innovation in the feed sector, from precision nutrition solutions to sustainable ingredient sourcing. Supported by the parent companies’ R&D programs and strong ties across the agricultural value chain, the joint venture is positioned to accelerate the development of cutting-edge feed products and solutions that benefit producers and animals alike.

A Stronger Partner for Customers

For customers—whether large-scale livestock operations, equine enthusiasts, or backyard hobby farmers—the new company promises greater choice, more robust product support, and deeper expertise. By bringing together diverse feed brands and teams, ADM and Alltech are building a partner that can serve the full spectrum of animal agriculture needs with consistency and reliability.

The companies stressed that relationships with customers remain central to their mission. Personalized service, local knowledge, and trusted partnerships will continue to define the way the new joint venture does business, even as its capabilities expand.

Source Link