Conclusion of Unification Discussions

Grantsburg and Ellsworth, Wisconsin. (March 8th 2024) – In a joint statement issued today, the Boards of Directors of Burnett Dairy Cooperative and Ellsworth Creamery Cooperative have declared the conclusion of their ongoing unification discussions.

The decision follows a seven-month study in which the boards and leadership toured each cooperative’s facilities in addition to conducting in-depth financial and governance reviews.

“While there were many great opportunities offered in a unification, our immediate focus is on serving our respective members, ” said Burnett Dairy’s board chair, Kyle Mathison who farms near Cumberland, WI. “The two cooperatives are a good match, but we want to take some more time to sit back and focus on our own teams while we continue to build upon the great partnership we’ve built in this process.”

“Our cooperatives are each in good financial shape and our employees are energized for serving our members,” added Ellsworth Creamery’s board chair, Dan Rosen who farms near Clear Lake, WI. “It’s been great to connect the teams at our two cooperatives. Those relationships are going to benefit our producers.”

Each board expressed their gratitude to the member-owners and employees who shared their feedback, insights, and ideas during the study period.

Both Burnett Dairy and Ellsworth Creamery intend to continue identifying opportunities to grow, expand and improve their businesses.