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History of Success

At the age of 26, with a degree in Animal Sciences from the University of Illinois, John B. Swisher founded United Feeds at Sheridan Indiana in 1956. With two employees and $25,000 borrowed from family members, the idea was to attract customers and help them to grow and prosper. United Feeds would grow along with them. This philosophy has worked beyond his dreams. Mr. Swisher has grown this employee-owned company to 400 employees manning eight grain facilities, totaling over 20 million bushel storage, and nine feed mills, supplying customers throughout the United States and Asia. We are privileged to serve the top hog producers in the industry.

First JBS United Office

United Feeds' first office was an 8 x 10 realtor's shack. It was a humble beginning. This remained our headquarters for 10 years. We acquired this first home for the hard-earned sum of $200.

Around 1965, United Feeds introduced low inclusion rate premix packages that have now become the standard of the industry. Our commitment to provide quality nutrition technology at a reasonable price is our trademark. Prices are kept low by delivering direct to the customer, no distributorships and very little advertising. You pay only for feed, service and technology.

Wallace Farm, circa 1969

Wallace Farm, circa 1969

In 1970, we built our first research farm, with the idea that in order to properly advise our customers. We must be able to test how our products and ideas perform in a production environment that closely resembles our customers' systems. We now have two farrow-to-finish research farms, nursery-finish discovery centers, and nutrient management research facilities. The research and development team conducts over 400 trials a year and works in conjunction with several universities, boar studs, and scientists abroad. Along with the development of new feeds, we test genetics, equipment, and management practices.

First Truck

United Feeds' First Truck

In addition, JBS United, Inc. offers a computerized record service. This database has over 25 years of information and consists of over 400 current farms. The production / financial records have served as one of the primary tools for the growth and prosperity of JBS United, Inc. and its customers.

1975 was another milestone when we purchased a regional feed manufacturer. This acquisition meant we increased our sales force, our storage capabilities and gained a considerable amount of feed business in the Midwest.

In the early 1990's there were a series of mergers and acquisitions to grow JBS United.

JBS United, Inc. is now a prosperous company with approximately 400 employees, nine feed mills, eight grain terminals and four research farms throughout the United States and worldwide. Its areas of expertise lie in research-based animal nutrition products, livestock production, grain merchandising and environmental consulting services.

Additional Events

Mr. Swisher receives an Honorary Ph.D. from Purdue University

Mr. Swisher receives an Honorary Ph.D. from Purdue University

Mr. and Mrs. John Swisher

Mr. and Mrs. John Swisher


What's in a Name?

U: Unified
N: Nutrition
I: Innovative
T: Technological
E: Experienced
D: Dedicated


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