The concept of agricultural cooperatives -- farmers pooling their resources for maximum gain -- is far from a new concept; however, this strategy can be identified as an emerging trend influencing feed production the world over. In fact, such cooperatives account for the largest feed producers in many countries.
The success of these co-ops becomes evident when reviewing Feed International’s “World’s Top Feed Companies” report, the October/November issue’s cover story. The data used to develop the 97-company listing was drawn from WATT Global Media’s exclusive Top Feed Companies database and features the leading compound feed manufacturers. The companies and cooperatives featured produced 1 million metric tons or more in 2013.
According to WATT Research, seven of the top 30 compound feed manufacturers in 2013 are listed as farmer-owned cooperatives -- even if the companies are commercial enterprises that were created by the cooperative. Many of these cooperatives can be found in Asia -- China in particular -- but the United States has also very successfully leveraged this model.
Data collection is a cooperative effort
WATT Global Media goes to great lengths to gather content that can only be found on WATTAgNet.com and within the company’s trade titles. The success of this effort hinges on the cooperation of our trusted sources -- and many times the readership -- to guide the dialogue, identify the hot topics and provide valuable insight.
To meet the needs of all stakeholder groups, we ask that visitors to the Top Feed Companies database and related market data register to access this information. I just wanted to offer an explanation and prepare you for what you’ll find if you’re hoping to access the Top Companies listing and database.
I’d hate to assume that every curious party is a Feed International subscriber. If you are not, may I suggest that you also consider signing up for a free subscription to our digital publication? It only takes a few minutes to complete, but will grant you access to this and other exclusive annual magazine features. Interested? Click here.
I urge you to review the 2013 listing and offer any trends you see evolving in the global feed industry. Want to share your thoughts? Reach out to me directly at [email protected].
