— Mitch Altermatt, CEO
As I approach my one-year anniversary as CEO of Crystal Valley Cooperative, I want to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and outline where we’re headed next.
This past year has been challenging for agriculture. Weather volatility, margin compression, global uncertainty, and elevated interest rates created significant headwinds across our industry. In the face of those challenges, your cooperative remained focused, disciplined, and committed to serving you.
While fiscal year 2025 results fell short of our internal expectations, we took deliberate steps to strengthen Crystal Valley’s long-term financial position. We made proactive balance sheet adjustments, preserved strong working capital, and continued investing in infrastructure that supports your operation and future growth.
Key Accomplishments This Past Year
- Maintained a strong balance sheet despite industry pressure
- Invested approximately $7 million in facility and equipment improvements
- Continued major strategic projects in Madelia totaling more than $23 million
- Strengthened internal controls and reinforced financial discipline
- Took proactive steps to prepare for future financial obligations
- Positioned the cooperative for long-term stability
Most importantly, our team never lost sight of our purpose: serving our members. From agronomy and grain to energy and feed, our employees showed up every day ready to deliver dependable service.
Where We Stand Today
As we move through FY26, I am pleased to report that we are performing ahead of budget. Early indicators are positive, and the operational adjustments we implemented are gaining traction.
We are:
- Streamlining processes to improve efficiency
- Managing expenses with discipline
- Investing strategically where returns justify the capital
- Modernizing systems through our ERP transition
- Evaluating opportunities for responsible, sustainable growth
Looking Ahead to FY26 and Beyond
Agriculture will always be cyclical. Markets rise and fall. What defines a strong cooperative is how it prepares for and responds to those cycles.
Crystal Valley was built to navigate challenging periods, and we will continue making thoughtful adjustments to stay ahead in a dynamic industry. That means embracing technology, improving operational efficiency, strengthening margins, and maintaining financial flexibility.
Our assets are strong. Our team is capable. Our balance sheet is solid. And our future is promising.
I am grateful for the trust you place in Crystal Valley Cooperative and in me as your CEO. We remain committed to protecting your investment while pursuing opportunities that create long-term value.
The work accomplished over the past year positions us not only to recover, but to compete, grow, and succeed in FY26 and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support.