Dairy Marketing Services and farm cooperative Land O'Lakes Inc. said they have agreed to jointly market milk from both organizations in the Northeast United States

Food & Drink Weekly, August 11, 2003

Dairy Marketing Services and farm cooperative Land O'Lakes Inc. said they have agreed to jointly market milk from both organizations in the Northeast United States. The deal will involve about 16 billion pounds of milk produced annually by dairy producers represented by the two organizations in that region.

The focus of the agreement is to provide greater efficiencies and savings in milk marketing, assembly, and transportation. Also, the ultimate goal is to enhance returns to all members, the companies said. "By jointly marketing milk supplies and redirecting milk to the closest destination, we will generate savings for both organizations," said DMS Chief Executive Officer Rick Smith. The agreement applies only to the marketing of milk. Both organizations will retain separate operations for membership, member services and programs, producer payroll, and cooperative governance.