Manitoba Agribusiness Expands with Strategic Acquisition of U.S. Company's Operations
In a significant development for Canada's agricultural sector, Orenda Commodity Services Ltd., based in Ste. Agathe, Manitoba, has announced the acquisition of Scoular's sunflower and wild bird food blending business. The transaction, which includes a processing facility located in Winkler, Manitoba, was finalized on January 19, 2026, marking a strategic expansion for the family-owned Canadian company.
Strengthening Manitoba's Agricultural Economy
Orenda President Aaron Elskamp emphasized that this acquisition represents a natural alignment for the company, its producers, and its customers. "Sunflowers are a unique crop with a unique market," Elskamp stated. "Orenda specializes in connecting the entire value chain to create a sustainable crop that boosts the Manitoba economy." The company has committed to partnering with Scoular to ensure a smooth transition for facility employees, sunflower producers, and end-use customers.
Orenda Commodity Services Ltd. is a vertically integrated operation with deep farming roots in the Woodlands, Manitoba area. The company employs approximately 80 people across four locations in Manitoba, including oilseed and grain processing facilities in both Ste. Agathe and Winkler. Orenda's core business involves wild bird food blending, packaging, and logistics, utilizing a network of local suppliers and customers to customize seed mixes for retail bird food markets and human consumption.
Details of the Acquired Operations
The Winkler facility that is part of this acquisition handles products for both the bird food and human consumption markets. This purchase allows Orenda to enhance its existing capabilities and expand its market presence in specialized agricultural segments.
Scoular, the seller, is an employee-owned agribusiness headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, with annual revenues of $7.3 billion. The company employs 1,250 people and operates in grain and ingredient buying, selling, storage, handling, and processing. Scoular serves farmers, grain processors, biofuel producers, and manufacturers across animal feed, aquafeed, pet food, food, beverages, and supplements sectors.
This acquisition demonstrates ongoing consolidation and strategic realignment within the North American agricultural industry, with Canadian companies actively expanding their operations through targeted purchases of complementary businesses.
