Your Co-Op
As a member of United Producers, Inc., you have ownership of your co-op! We know our co-op is only as strong as our members, so we value every member individually for his/her unique experiences and knowledge. Together, we can accomplish more.
As a farmer-owned and farmer-governed business, United Producers commits to meeting the needs of our members in their local operations, rather than generating returns for distant investors. Together, we see the future and work together to build success in our communities.
At United Producers, Inc., we strongly believe in the core principles of cooperatives:
Voluntary & Open Membership
Cooperatives are voluntary organizations open to all people who use co-op services and who are willing to accept the responsibility of membership. At United Producers, membership is open to anyone who utilizes our livestock marketing and credit services.
Democratic Member Control
By operating under democratic member control, co-op members have the opportunity to actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. United Producers holds annual delegate meetings to ensure that all decisions are made to benefit the members and that members have the opportunity to understand, ask questions and become educated about the future of the cooperative.
Members’ Economic Participation
Co-op members contribute equally to the capital of the cooperative. This benefits members in proportion to the business they conduct with the co-op.
Autonomy & Independence
Co-ops are managed by an independent board elected by its membership. The United Producers board of directors is comprised of members elected by delegates, voted on by the membership.
Education Training & Information
Co-ops provide education and training for their members, managers and employees so they can contribute effectively to the growth and development of their cooperatives and communities. At United Producers, we use our website, social media, district meetings, employee and director training, and community events to educate and train employees, co-op members, leadership and community members.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Co-ops are able to serve their members most effectively by working together through local, national, regional and international initiatives. United Producers values relationships with other co-ops, such as electric co-ops that provide service to our facilities and lending co-ops that partner with our credit department. We are also actively involved in the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives and Mid America Cooperative Council – organizations dedicated to the support and promotion of agricultural cooperatives.
Concern for Community
Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through employee involvement in local organizations, charitable contributions to community efforts and support for schools. United Producers is dedicated to the local communities where we operate and support the future generation of agriculture. To support building future leaders in our community, UPI works with local 4-H clubs, FFA chapters and other youth organizations, as well as non-profit organizations.