Jake Parnell is no stranger to Cattlemen’s Livestock Market (CLM) in Galt, CA, where he has managed the yards for the past 16 years. Now, Parnell has taken ownership of the company.
CLM has been in business since 1968 under the ownership of the Loretz family. The market is one of the largest cattle yards in the state of California and the Western U.S., and after 55 years of operating the company, Frank Loretz made the decision to sell the business to Parnell and his wife, Molly.
“Molly and I are very honored that Mr. Loretz decided to trust us with continuing Cattlemen’s Livestock’s legacy in Galt, CA,” Parnell said. “We will do our best to serve the industry and the cattlemen of Nevada, California and southern Oregon to the best of our ability.”
Parnell added that the venture is an opportunity for his family to grow their involvement in the livestock business, especially as his 7-year-old twins, Parker and Ben; and 8-year-old son, Jack, get older.
Loretz will continue to stay involved in the cattle business. Parnell said the market is not going to change much in its operations, and the market will continue to have the same commitment to customer service and dedication to the cattle industry.
Parnell emphasized that he will continue to help producers improve their cow herds and their genetics by auctioning at purebred cattle sales in addition to his role at CLM, where his ultimate goal is to help producers make their product more valuable.
“Producer profitability is our focus,” Parnell said. “We will continue to help producers in California, Nevada and southern Oregon maximize their opportunities for success.”
CLM sells 100,000 head annually through its Wednesday afternoon sales and also serves as a representative for Western Video Market, a role that will continue to be a priority focus for Parnell and the CLM team. — WLJ
WLJ thanks Frank Loretz and the CLM team for their continued support and decades of loyalty over the years. WLJ looks forward to furthering its relationship with the Parnell family.
