MRJ, during my prowlings, I found out that 3/4 of the small plants that sold in Canada over the past 10 years were PROFITABLE, and that the larger foreign owned companies were simply able to pay enough money to induce the owners to sell.  Everything is for sale for the right amount of money. 

I always hesitate to use the term "packer-backer", because I don't want to see another thread reduced to name calling, however the packer camp seems to be sure that smaller packers cannot survive.  There is absolutely no evidence to suggest this at all.

I find it staggering that producers are unable to comprehend how concentration is hurting producers.  I also find it staggering that producers are unable to comprehend how having a company who is invested in COMPETING industries is bad for them.  I know producers who supported the break up of Microsoft, and supported not allowing them to invest with Intel, but are fine with the idea that Tyson should be allowed to invest in chicken, pork AND beef industries.

Rod