"Vertical integration may present a viable solution for growing a business. Rather than fighting the market, farmers must create an integrated means to the market by controlling more of the steps from farm gate to dinner plate. Farmers can develop a means of integration by, for example, purchasing a subsidiary, establishing a contractual relationship with an outsource company, or forming a strategic alliance. Combining resources with other farmers may offer an opportunity to modify your business model, impact the market, and tip the economies of scale in your favor."

Excerpted from Legacy by Design: Succession Planning for Agribusiness Owners
(Marketplace Books, 2006) by Kevin Spafford.