Animal feed and ingredients manufacturer Furst-McNess Co. (FMC) announced Monday that it has been purchased by Easy USA Holdings Inc., a subsidiary of animal feed nutrition and feed mill organization Easy Holdings Co. Ltd.

The Freeport, IL-based company sells animal feeds, premixes, commodities, and specialty solutions and operates 12 facilities in eight states and Canada. Easy USA intends to retain the company name and preserve its current workforce.  

“We are a ‘hands off’ type of owner and are here to assist Furst-McNess in expending its product offerings and distribution, both in North America and internationally,” Dr. Stevenson Hwang, the CEO of Easy USA, said in a statement. “Furst-McNess is a highly respected brand built on more than a centure of solid business capabilities, unique competencies, and active corporate values. We look forward to learning from it, working with so many talented people, and supporting the company for additional growth.”

FMC will operate as a standalone business following the transaction. Its veteran leader Ned Furst is expected to serve as chairman emeritus on FMC’s board.

“Easy USA brings to Furst-McNess significant international distribution channels, financial resources, and a new range of product ingredients and products we can now offer in North America,” said FMC Board Chairman Eddie Wells in the release. “Conversely, FMC provides Easy USA with a substantial presence in the US animal nutrition industry from which it can now expand.”