Members of White City-based Grange Co-op and Farm Supply Company have approved a merger expected to take effect Oct. 1. Grange CEO Neil Itzen will lead the combined 13-store cooperative, which will employ about 460 people across Oregon and California. More than 90% of combined members supported the agreement.

Grange Co-op and Farm Supply Company have announced a proposed merger that would create a 13-store agricultural cooperative across Oregon and California. The companies say the merger could strengthen purchasing power, improve product availability and expand offerings for farmers, ranchers, growers and rural customers.