Associated Milk Producers Inc. (AMPI)
Associated Milk Producers Inc. (AMPI) is a leading dairy cooperative based in New Ulm, Minnesota, United States. Founded in 1969, AMPI is owned by dairy farm families across the Midwest and is one of the largest dairy cooperatives in the country. The cooperative is dedicated to producing high-quality dairy products, including cheese, butter, and powdered dairy ingredients, which are distributed nationwide and internationally.
Core Business and Specialization
AMPI operates as a farmer-owned cooperative, focusing on:
- Dairy Processing and Manufacturing – Producing high-quality cheese, butter, and dairy powders.
- Milk Collection and Supply Chain Management – Gathering fresh milk from its cooperative members for processing.
- Private Label and Foodservice Distribution – Supplying dairy products to retailers, restaurants, and industrial food manufacturers.
With state-of-the-art production facilities, AMPI ensures that its dairy products meet the highest standards of quality and safety.
Product Portfolio
AMPI specializes in a wide range of dairy products, including:
-
Cheese
- Cheddar
- Colby
- Monterey Jack
- Pepper Jack
-
Butter
- Salted Butter
- Unsalted Butter
-
Powdered Dairy Products
These products are used in retail, foodservice, and industrial applications, catering to major food manufacturers, bakeries, and grocery chains.
Market Presence and Production Capacity
AMPI has a strong market presence in the U.S. dairy industry, supplying dairy products to national brands, regional retailers, and international markets. The cooperative processes approximately 5.7 billion pounds of milk annually, making it a key player in the American dairy sector.
Production Facilities
AMPI operates six manufacturing plants located across the Midwest, strategically positioned to source fresh milk efficiently from its cooperative members.
Export and Shipment Data
The U.S. dairy industry exports over 16% of its total dairy production, and AMPI plays an integral role in this supply chain. The cooperative exports its dairy ingredients to Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, serving the growing global demand for high-quality dairy products.
Competitive Advantage
- Farmer-Owned Cooperative Model – Ensures transparency, fair pricing, and commitment to high-quality production.
- Advanced Dairy Processing Technology – Utilizes cutting-edge techniques for consistent product quality.
- Strong Domestic and International Presence – Supplies dairy products to leading brands, food manufacturers, and export markets.
Certifications and Compliance
AMPI upholds rigorous food safety and quality standards, holding certifications such as:
- USDA Dairy Certification
- HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
- ISO 22000 Food Safety Management
- Kosher and Halal Certification for Dairy Products
These certifications ensure that AMPI’s products meet global regulatory and quality requirements.
Achievements and Industry Recognition
- Recognized as one of the top dairy cooperatives in the United States.
- Supplies over 10% of the nation’s American-style cheese to major retailers and foodservice providers.
- Winner of multiple dairy industry awards for quality and innovation.
With a commitment to dairy excellence, sustainability, and farmer-owned integrity, Associated Milk Producers Inc. continues to be a leader in the dairy industry, providing high-quality dairy products to customers worldwide.