The North American Meat Association Board of Directors met last week to consider issues and policies of the association, including the possibility of a merger with the American Meat Institute (AMI). At the conclusion of discussions, the NAMA Board voted to approve an Agreement and Plan of Merger under which NAMA will merge with AMI effective January 1, 2015.

“The NAMA Board feels strongly that the members will be best served by this merger. We’re excited to have this opportunity to form a new industry organization,” said NAMA Co-President Tony Gahn Jr.

AMI and NAMA initiated discussions about a possible merger in September of last year. Since that time, a committee composed of members from each association has explored how a new organization can best serve its members. AMI members will vote in April on the proposed merger with NAMA.

“The time has come for the industry to speak with one voice,” said NAMA Co-President Mike Hesse.

The American Meat Institute issued a statement welcoming news of the vote. AMI’s members will vote on the merger in April.

“NAMA’s vote is welcome news. A merger of our two groups is the right decision at the right time and it will serve our industry well,” said AMI Chairman Greg Benedict, chief operating officer and president of American Foods Group, who serves on the merger committee.  “We believe this presents us with an opportunity to create a better, stronger organization that can speak with a unified voice.” 

Source: NAMA, AMI