Dairy Farmers of America has acquired Maine-based milk processor Oakhurst for an undisclosed sum. 

The business will continue to operate as a stand-along subsidiary of Dairy Farmers of America under current co-presidents John Bennett and Tom Brigham.

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Oakhurst has been owned and operated by the Bennett family for more than 90 years. Commenting on the decision to sell, chairman Bill Bennett said it was a “big decision” for the family, but one which was “best for the furute of the company”.

“Farmer-owned Dairy Farmers of America understands the importance of supporting local farmers and our community and has the financial strength to fuel new opportunities for growth and improvements in our Maine and New England operations,” he said.

Oakhurt will continue to source its milk from the 70 independent Maine farmers that currently supply the group and it will remain committed to not using artificial growth hormone in its milk. All 200 of Oakhurst’s current employees will retain their jobs, the company added. 

Dairy Farmers of America is a national farmers cooperative. The group has expanded its regional presence in the fluid milk and ice cream categories through a number of recent acquisitions, including Guida’s Dairy in Connecticut, Kemps in Minnesota and Dairy Maid Dairy in Maryland. These local brands continue to function as independent businesses, Dairy Farmers of America said. 

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