Looking back, looking ahead

The start of a new year is a time to reflect

I usually take the time each year during December and January to take stock of what was accomplished during the year and think about what might be ahead. There were some significant changes this past year in the Co-op world, and it was thought provoking to thumb through issue of The Cooperator from 2025. Below are four topics that stood out as I reviewed the year. As a side note, you can do this yourselves on the Co-op website at www.ourcoop.com.

New Delivery Method added for The Cooperator: In January, we announced that a new digital format platform was available to be delivered direct to your phone, tablet, or computer. This new method was not intended to replace the print version, but just to add another option for those who prefer digital delivery. You can access this content and view an archive of several years of back issues of The Cooperator at ourcoop.com. Lot's of people have taken advantage of this new format, and we look forward to seeing it grow as a delivery method. But rest assured this is not designed to replace the print version that our readers love so much.

Mergers continue in the Co-op System: The number of member Co-ops in the system continued to change in 2025 with mergers between United Farm & Home Cooperative and Mid-South Farmers Cooperative — which became effective September 1 — and the merger of Jefferson Farmers Cooperative with AgCentral Farmers Cooperative, finalized on March 1. These moves are a natural evolution of the cooperative system as leaders explore ways to increase efficiency while serving fewer full-time farmers.

Happy birthday to Tennessee Farmers Co-op: The 80th Anniversary of the establishment of TFC was a cause for celebration during September and December. TFC leadership hosted a gathering for employees and industry leaders at the La Vergne campus on September 9 to recognize the impact this business has had on Tennessee agriculture for more than eight decades. The event’s theme, “Bound Together,” was a nod to the collaboration at all levels that has kept this organization viable and relevant during periods of great change. The theme and festivities continued as a highlight of the TFC Annual Meeting on November 30 and December 1. You can read more about the meeting on pages 17-24 in this issue. A history book compiled by the Marketing and Communications Department — also entitled “Bound Together” — was released to commemorate the event. Copies are available for purchase at participating Co-ops.

The search for a new TFC CEO: Looking ahead, the TFC Board of Directors will be hiring a new chief executive officer to lead the cooperative soon, though no deadline for the search effort is in place. TFC Chief Risk Officer John Cain has been serving as Interim CEO since October and is working to ensure a smooth transition of leadership when that time arrives.

Challenges facing the system and the agriculture industry continue to linger. But it seems that optimism is in the air, perhaps due to the celebration of TFC’s 80th year of business. By working together, we can surely overcome any challenges that may lie ahead.

The Cooperator staff wishes you a prosperous and successful 2026.

Story by Glen Liford,

Contact gliford@ourcoop.com