By Lori Ehde
In an agreement signed last week, Farmer’s Union Co-op Oil has purchased the assets of Rock County Co-op Oil, Luverne.
Both businesses have operated in Luverne for nearly 50 years. Farmer’s Union started in 1954 and Rock County Co-Op Oil dates back to 1927.
The two operations have offered similar services and products, such as petroleum products, LP gas, tires, agronomy inputs and custom fertilizer application.
According to Farmer’s Union General Manager LeRoy Lindblom, current clients of both businesses will notice very few changes, except for minor things like signage.
Both locations will remain open on South Highway 75 and will serve a combined clientele in Rock and Nobles counties and surrounding areas.
"This will allow us to serve a larger customer base," Lindblom said Monday.
Rock County Co-Op Oil has seven full-time employees, and Farmer’s Union currently employs 13 people full-time and another 10 on a part-time basis.
Rock County Co-Op Oil employees have been offered jobs at Farmer’s Union.
A mailing explaining details of the purchase agreement is planned for all customers of both co-ops.
"I would like to thank the stockholders for doing business with Rock County Co-Op Oil since 1927," Rock County Co-Op Board President Darrell Hemme, Hardwick, said Monday.
The agreement will be effective early in January.
"Farmer’s Union Co-Op Oil Company looks forward to serving all our customers’ future needs," said Farmer’s Union Board President Doug Brake, Wilmont, in a statement released last week.