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Wilbur-Ellis Company Extends Its Reach In South Dakota
Posted: 3/8/2010 12:09 PM

San Francisco, CA.—March 4, 2010—Wilbur-Ellis Company announced today that it has purchased the assets of Kroeplin Ag Service, Inc. and related entities, a retailer and aerial applicator of plant protection products headquartered in Highmore, SD. The purchase includes locations in Miller and Blunt. The transaction is effective March 4, 2010.

In making the announcement, John P. Thacher, Wilbur-Ellis Company President and CEO, commented on the acquisition. “The opportunity for us to link this business to our existing operations in the South Dakota market was compelling. The ability to share equipment and coordinate our product offerings into this large growing area and to join forces with a talented manager like Doug Kroeplin will certainly be to the benefit of our customers as well,” said Thacher.

Speaking on behalf of Kroeplin Ag Service, President Doug Kroeplin stressed the value to both organizations of joining forces. “We have worked with the Wilbur-Ellis people in our market for several years and feel that we know them pretty well and that they share our attitude about providing high levels of service to customers. There will be many opportunities to capitalize on their considerable resources to allow us to provide a broader product offering and expanded services,” said Kroeplin. Kroeplin continued, “Our employees have been a key in building the business and I particularly want to acknowledge Daryl Chapin, who is also a shareholder, for his personal contributions.”