Organic Valley: A Leader in Organic Dairy
Organic Valley, headquartered in La Farge, Wisconsin, stands as the largest organic farmer-owned cooperative in the United States. Established in 1988, the cooperative has built a reputation for producing high-quality organic dairy products, including milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming practices, Organic Valley supports local farmers and emphasizes environmental stewardship.
Company Overview
The cooperative's headquarters in La Farge, Wisconsin, serves as the central hub for its extensive network of over 1,800 farmer-members across the country. This network enables Organic Valley to produce a diverse range of dairy products, which are distributed nationally, showcasing the cooperative's expansive reach and influence in the organic dairy market.
Financial Indicators
As a leading entity in the organic dairy industry, Organic Valley boasts annual revenues surpassing $1 billion. This financial strength is largely attributed to its comprehensive distribution network and unwavering commitment to quality assurance across its product lines.
Important Company Events
In 2023, Organic Valley marked a significant milestone by appointing Shawna Nelson as its new Chief Executive Officer. This strategic leadership change underscores the cooperative's dedication to robust leadership and future growth. Shawna Nelson brings extensive expertise and a vision for sustainability that aligns with Organic Valley's core values.
Company Plans
Under Shawna Nelson's leadership, Organic Valley plans to expand its market reach while maintaining its dedication to sustainable and organic farming practices. The cooperative aims to invest in innovation to enhance product offerings and optimize supply chain efficiency. Initiatives include increasing collaborations with local farmers to boost support for organic farming and exploring new markets for organic dairy products.
Organic Valley is spearheading a carbon insetting initiative for the U.S. dairy industry. In collaboration with Stonyfield Organic, UNFI, and Whole Foods Market, the cooperative has launched a Carbon Insetting Program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. organic dairy sector.
Additionally, Organic Valley has introduced a new high-protein milk line to cater to the rising consumer interest in functional dairy and protein-rich nutrition. This initiative reflects the brand's commitment to innovation and is expected to attract a segment of the market focused on nutritional content and quality. With the launch of ultrafiltered milk products, offering increased protein levels, reduced sugar, and digestive health benefits, Organic Valley aims to strengthen its competitive position and meet evolving consumer needs.
Furthermore, Organic Valley has been vocal in its criticism of the US federal milk pricing system, arguing that it disadvantages organic dairy producers by not reflecting higher production costs. The cooperative advocates for policy reform to ensure the long-term viability of organic milk producers.
Modified: 2026/06/11