RobertMac said:Agman, with Judge Strom overturning the jury verdict, it does come of as a sham! Why couldn't the appeal been made with the jury verdict standing?
Producers have the ability to control their destiny and effect the market place, but they have got to stay involved past weaning or the feedlot...particularly by supporting producer connected/run branded programs that support the small and medium size packers. These packers are our connection to the consumer...without them, we are at the mercy of those connected to the consumer. All dollars come from the consumer!
In very simple terms RM, no judge, including Judge Strom wants to be overturned. He knew if he let the verdict stand it would be overturned at the Appellate Level. There was no conspiracy, just lack of evidence to support the jury finding. Whether you agee or not please accept the fact that he operated with much legal precedent on his side. He did not make a rouge decision contray to some who suggest otherwise.
I agree whole heartedly that producers control their own destiny as they should. There are many ways to accomplish that through both large and small packers. There is much more of this happening than you are aware of and those associations are with packer of all sizes.
Also admit that markets are larger than many small or medium sized packers can serve. Markets and opportunites come in all sizes. That is the beauty of what is developing. There is something for everyone of any size if they define their market, focus and have excellent management skills. Failure in the packing business as in any other businesses has a common thread, lack of focus and lack of excellent management.
I have been contacted over the years by many packers and producers of various size. The most intriguing and the ones with the most flexibility are the intermediate to smaller packers. I encouraged these practices to be successful in the packing business; identify your market, know your market, produce for that market and remember that the only constant is change. Those who have defined their markets, separate from where the majors operate, are very successful if they have the proper management. In fact, these have been and remain the most profitable packers albeit that may come as a shock to you. Remember that success or failure is not synonymous with size. I always tell people the market knows no names. Becoming a prisoner and victim of the market is self-inflicted unless one is a victim of natural catastrophe. Have a cool one.