NEBRASKA -- Several Nebraska grain handling locations will likely be switching owners. Legacy Cooperative has entered into an agreement to buy seven locations from West Plains, including businesses in Alliance, Hay Springs, Merriman, Berea, Chadron, and Clinton in Nebraska, as well as Batesland in South Dakota.

Legacy said it plans to keep all local employees and continue operations as normal.

The transaction is expected to close June 1.

“This acquisition continues to build strength across our core grain handling business while providing increased market access for our growers,” Charlie Wright, CEO of Legacy Cooperative, said in a press release.

"We believe that the sale of our Alliance assets to Legacy Cooperative, Inc. presents an opportunity for both companies to focus on their core strengths. This strategic move will enable West Plains to concentrate on expanding our market presence and capitalizing on our remaining core operating activities, ensuring sustained growth and success in the future,” Amit Bhandari, CEO of West Plains, said in a press release.