SHARPE FARM SUPPLIES BUYS BUDSON FARM AND FEED CO.

A major company in the agricultural industry has purchased a store in Erin as part of its expansion efforts.

Sharpe Farm Supplies Ltd. has acquired Budson Farm and Feed Co. in Erin. It will have a grand reopening in July. It has been considering the procurement for more than a year.

"We're excited about the acquisition in terms of Budson becoming part of our company family," said Paul Sharpe, president in an interview with the Advocate.

"Budson has a great reputation. It has a good and loyal customer base. Their

product offering is similar to ours where they specialize in equine nutrition."

The company is primarily involved in animal feed, grain and agronomy. Its headquarters are in Guelph with 12 stores across Ontario, including locations in Shelburne and Fergus. The company has conducted business in Erin with bulk and bag feed customers.

"We already had some representation," said Sharpe. "This strengthens our footprint in the area."

Staff at the store will be retained and outfitted with Sharpe uniforms while a new sign will replace the Budson one.

"We like to invest in training our staff so they're knowledgeable staff," said Sharpe. "They're a resource for our customers to be much more than a transactional person. They can answer a lot of questions that some other people maybe can't."

Delivery and pickup are available for customers interested in purchasing products.