BERWICK OIL COMPANY AND AG PARTNERS COOPERATIVE INC. ANNOUNCE MERGER TALKS
Jul 21, 2025
Member-owners are encouraged to review the merger information, attend meetings, and vote.
On July 15, 2025, Berwick Oil Company (Berwick) and Ag Partners Cooperative Inc. (Ag Partners) jointly announced that their respective Boards of Directors have unanimously approved a Letter of Intent (LOI) to pursue a potential merger. This strategic step is the result of the collaborative efforts of the coops, including a thorough independent analyses to assess associated risks and benefits.
Both Boards have given the green light to commence the drafting of a Definitive Agreement.
Ashley Shupp, the General Manager of Berwick Oil, expressed optimism regarding this opportunity, stating, “This is a meaningful step for both cooperatives. Our leadership believes this merger will benefit members, employees, and the long-term success of the business. Most importantly, it ensures that our cooperative model remains strong and sustainable for generations to come.”
Wes Spohr, CEO of Ag Partners, emphasized the shared values and community focus that unite the organizations, “This opportunity is about more than efficiency, it’s about preserving the cooperative presence in our rural communities. We want to ensure both co-ops remain strong, local, and member-driven, staying a viable choice for the years to come.”
The leadership teams of both cooperatives are committed to a transparent and thoughtful process, with member engagement and clear communication at every stage. Further updates will be shared as the discussions progress.
Member Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does a merger mean/What is the reason for the merger?
A merger is when two or more cooperatives join together to become one. For us, it means combining our resources to provide enhanced service to our members and employees, ensuring a stronger future for generations to come. This merger will help us stay competitive in today's market while keeping decision-making local.
2. How will this merger benefit the members?
The merger will enable us to ensure we remain strong, and we continue as a united, locally governed cooperative, ensuring that we offer our members high-quality products and services. We aspire to be the local retailer of choice now and in the future.
3. Where will the home office be located?
If the members cast a positive vote, the new cooperative will maintain local operations at the existing sites.
4. Who will be the CEO?
The CEO of the combined cooperatives will be Wes Spohr. Ashley Shupp will have a leadership role.
5. What will be the name of the new cooperative?
The merged cooperative will retain the Ag Partners Cooperative name. While retaining the Berwick legacy by keeping “The Barn” branding for the C-stores.
6. What will happen to my equity?
The goal will be to make the equity program fair to all and ensure continued member ownership of the cooperative.
7. How can I get more information?
Reach out to your cooperative’s general manager or your local board member with any questions you may have.
8. What’s next?
Both cooperative boards will perform due diligence regarding a potential merger. The results from these findings will be used to create a Definitive Agreement, which the boards will vote on before sending it to the Berwick membership for a vote.