IPSA Owner’s Meeting Deemed Successful
Member/Industry News
November 17, 2008
Greg Ruehle, CEO
402/991-3550
The Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA) met November 13-14, 2008 in Indianapolis to review and discuss the near- and long-term outlook for independent seed companies, in addition to the types of assistance the association might provide. Forty seed companies owners from throughout the US and Canada attended this important strategic meeting, which was scheduled just prior to IPSA's 20th Anniversary.
Irv Parker with Cornland Consulting provided attendees with a unique perspective on industry challenges and opportunities, relying on his nearly 45 years of seed industry experience. Members discussed how the industry continues to be challenged by product access and profitability issues, among other things. Attendees also discussed concepts that might assist companies in dealing with these challenges in the future. Those in attendance expressed a significant interest in identifying methods to conduct their businesses more efficiently and effectively, with a further analysis being made by Irv Parker.
IPSA's Chief Executive Officer Greg Ruehle presented an overview of the Association's programs and services, as well as offering concepts for future Association programming. Following a thorough analysis of Association programs, seed company members provided input for consideration by the IPSA Board of Directors. No formal actions were taken during the two-day meeting.
Those company leaders in attendance offered support for scheduling a follow-up meeting, with consideration for a summer 2009 timeframe.
The Independent Professional Seedsmen Association (IPSA) was formed in 1989 by a group of independent seed producers who recognized the need for an organization to represent independent seed companies world-wide. The Association addresses research and biotechnology issues and increases the media presence of the industry in an increasingly competitive and dynamic business climate. IPSA represents approximately 100 seed companies from more than 20 states and Canada, who produce approximately 20 percent of the corn, soybeans, small grain and forage seeds marketed annually.