Agrico acquires Agri-Retailer Independent Ag

May 16, 2016

Agrico is pleased to announce that it has acquired 100% ownership of the farm supply retailer Independent Ag. Started in Montmartre, Saskatchewan in 1999 by Donnie and Sharon Hewalo as a chemical and seed retailer, Independent Ag expanded into the Vibank, SK area in 2001, moving into the fertilizer business. This transaction is finalized effective May 16, 2016.

“Agrico sees great synergy and growth opportunities in this new business relation. Our vision and goals are really in tune with those of Independent Ag’s, a company that’s been devoted to its mission for the past 18 years: to be the most trusted provider of business and crop production solutions to help its customers succeed in their business,” stated Bill Wilford, General Manager at Agrico.

Despite the ownership change, the business structure, people and vision that clients have come to know and trust at Independent Ag will remain intact, and the team’s dedication to servicing its customers will not waiver. Usual contacts, brands and company names will also stay unchanged. As such, Donnie Hewalo will continue to manage the business.

Furthermore, Agrico’s joint venture strategy – with its focus on local ownership – will be very relevant to further develop the business of Independent Ag and Agrico will look into the process of bringing on new partners in support of continued growth and expansion in the region.

Agrico Canada intends on meeting with the stakeholders affected by the transaction in the near future.

Independent Ag Memorial Scholarship In Memory of Sharon Hewalo:

The scholarship in memory of Sharon Hewalo, the late wife of Donnie Hewalo and co-founder of Independent Ag, will be continued under her name to benefit the graduates from Montmartre School.

Media contact for Agrico:

Virginie Barbeau, Communication Specialist
438 274-8161 | virginie.barbeau@lacoop.coop