Central Valley Meat Co., Inc., Hanford, Calif., announced plans to acquire Harris Farms, Inc., Coalinga, Calif., including its wholly owned subsidiaries, Harris Feeding Co. and Harris Ranch Beef Co.

“We have known and respected John Harris [owner of Harris Farms] and Harris Ranch Beef for decades, and I am pleased to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to continue the business’ family-owned legacy and pursue its tremendous potential for growth here in the Central Valley,” says Brian Coelho, president and CEO of Central Valley Meat. “While Central Valley Meat Co. and Harris Ranch Beef will continue to operate independently, I expect both businesses and their respective customers to benefit from the companies’ shared knowledge, extensive resources and expanded product offering.”

Under the agreement, Harris Ranch Beef and Central Valley Meat Co. will operate independently, with both companies retaining their respective brands.

“The Central Valley has long served as the home of some of the finest beef sold around the world. Today’s announcement cements a future for two family-owned beef operations to continue to thrive,” adds Harris. “Brian has a proven track record of growing businesses, and under his leadership, Harris Ranch Beef can continue its long and storied legacy.”

“Brian and the Central Valley Meat Co. team share our view that employees are our company’s most valuable asset and that customers should be treated as partners, if not as family,” says Dave Wood, chairman of the Harris Ranch Beef operations. “We are pleased to work with Brian, and we look forward to each company’s continued success.”

Harris Farms’ hospitality division, including the Harris Ranch Inn and Restaurant, farms division, horse division and River Ranch will remain fully owned by Harris Farms. Wood will remain with Harris Farms as president.