White Oak, a San Francisco, California Investment firm submitted the winning bid for the Northern Beef Packing Plant in Aberdeen, South Dakota, which has been in bankruptcy proceedings. State Cattlemen Association Vice President and De Smet area producer Todd Wilkinson says while there are many unknowns about White Oak He’s hoping they will begin processing cattle soon.
In their $ 44.35 million bid, White Oak included $ 4.8 million in cash to satisfy liens. Wilkinson says he’s hoping that’s an indication all the hassles with the old Northern Beef Packing Plant can be overcome and more solid management put in place to provide producers a place to take their cattle.
Wilkinson says the Aberdeen processing facility is an important cog for the state’s certified beef program. He’s hoping White Oak will move forward with that concept when and if they open the facility. White Oak officials have refused to comment on the purchase.