HOUSTON – King Ranch recently announced it acquired a 50% stake in Cobalt Cattle, the fourth-largest cattle feeding operation in the United States with six feedyards in Colorado, Kansas and Texas.

“We are excited about this opportunity and what it means for King Ranch’s long-term commitment to the beef industry,” said Robert Hodgen, chief executive officer of King Ranch. “Cobalt Cattle is a clear leader in the cattle feeding sector with a highly seasoned and experienced management team. We look forward to leveraging our combined industry expertise while upholding our shared commitment to the highest standards of excellence.”

The company added that the acquisition was the next step in its long-term strategic vision to participate in various sectors of the beef industry, which will help the entire value chain.

Hogden stated the goal for the deal was to align with partners like Cobalt Cattle to consistently bring nutritious and delicious beef to the American consumer.

“Cobalt Cattle looks forward to partnering with King Ranch and achieving the long-term benefits of working together while building an enduring legacy in the cattle industry,” said Joel Jarnagin, President and CEO of Cobalt Cattle. “King Ranch is well known and their desire to partner with Cobalt Cattle is a testament to the discipline and operational excellence the Cobalt Cattle team brings each day.”

Some of King Ranch’s storied history in the cattle business includes participating in some of the first cattle drives of the United States and helping found industry associations like the Texas and Southwest Cattle Raisers Association.

The King Ranch operation is headquartered in Houston with operations in Texas, Florida, California and Oklahoma.