Industry Pulse: What AFCO’s Acquisition of Alaska Mill & Feed Signals for Local Manufacturing

Last week, AFCO Distribution, a division of Skagit Farmers Supply in Washington, announced it has acquired Alaska Mill & Feed, the longtime Anchorage-based manufacturer and supplier of feed, garden, and pet products. The company will retain its employees and continue operations under its familiar name — a sign that larger regional players see real value in Alaska-made production.

For Alaska’s manufacturing community, this is worth watching. The move strengthens regional feed and agricultural supply chains, which play a critical role in our local food systems. It also highlights a growing trend we’re seeing across the state — Lower 48 distributors and cooperatives investing in Alaska operations rather than bypassing them.

“We’re honoring the history and strengths of both companies while building something even greater together,”— Tom Boland, CEO, Skagit Farmers Supply (via Spokane Journal of Business)

That statement captures what we’d like to see more of: partnerships that expand access and efficiency while keeping Alaska jobs and production in Alaska.

For local manufacturers, the takeaway is simple:

• Visibility matters. The more we connect and advocate for Alaska-based production, the more outside investors recognize our capacity.

• Partnerships can scale our reach. Strategic collaboration — when done right — can strengthen supply chains and reduce freight barriers statewide.

• Community roots matter most. Retaining local operations and workforce ensures Alaska’s manufacturing voice stays strong.

🗣 Let’s hear from you: How have acquisitions, partnerships, or expansions affected your business or community? What do you think it takes to protect Alaska-based production as new players enter the market?

Share your perspective with us at connect@akmfg.org or join the conversation in our next MFG Mixer. Together, we’re shaping the future of Alaska-made.

📖 Source: Spokane Journal of Business, Nov 6 2025