Gerber & Sons Inc., a family-owned feed mill in Baltic, Ohio, is undergoing a major modernization project backed by $25 million in United States Department of Agriculture-guaranteed loans. The century-old business, which has been serving local livestock and poultry farmers since 1905, is set to significantly increase its production capacity and efficiency.
The project, financed through USDA's Business and Industry Loan program in partnership with The Commercial & Savings Bank (CSB), includes a $20.5 million loan for construction costs and a $4.5 million loan for new equipment. This investment will enable Gerber & Sons to double its annual processing capacity from 1.65 million bushels of corn and consolidate storage of over 500,000 bushels of raw materials.
Seth Gerber, the company's president and general manager, highlighted the importance of the upgrade: "Working with USDA has been a tremendous benefit. They've helped us secure financing and purchase state-of-the-art equipment that will benefit the farmer and the customer so we can produce quality, consistent feed."
The new facility will feature automated processing and packaging equipment, along with improved grinding, mixing, and loading capabilities. This modernization is crucial for the mill, which has seen its production grow from 23,000 tons in its first year to over 100,000 tons annually, serving more than 2,300 farmers within a 100-mile radius.
Clay Sinnett, a commercial loan officer with CSB, emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses: "This partnership with the USDA was essential to manage risk and ensure the project's success, which is vital for the prosperity of our local agricultural community."
The modernization project not only secures the future of Gerber & Sons but also reinforces its commitment to serving family-owned, generational farms in the region. Construction is currently underway, with the new facility expected to open in 2025, ensuring a "viable option for another 100 years for feed," according to Gerber.
