Alberta, Canada-based UFA Co-operative Limited is poised to acquire a majority interest in Utah-based Sportsman’s Warehouse, increasing the co-operative’s annual revenue by $800 million.

Sportsman’s Warehouse is a privately-owned outdoor outfitter with annual revenue topping $800 million and 67 stores in 38 American states. The acquisition aligns with UFA’s strategy to diversify beyond its traditional businesses.

“UFA is a co-operative serving the people who live, work and play in rural communities,” says Dallas Thorsteinson, president and CEO. “Acquiring Sportsman’s Warehouse fits perfectly with our strategy to create sustained valued for our owners by expanding to become a well-rounded rural marketer.”

UFA will acquire a majority interest in US-based Sportsman’s Warehouse. The acquisition is subject to successful completion of negotiations and a comprehensive due diligence process. UFA has already made a significant cash injection into the US retailer to ensure it’s well stocked for the holiday retail season.

UFA is driving a controlled diversification strategy that includes construction and outdoor- lifestyle businesses. As a rural marketer, outdoor recreational products and services are a logical extension of UFA’s existing relationship with customers and members. UFA acquired Canadian outdoor outfitter Wholesale Sports in July 2008. Sportsman’s Warehouse expands the co-operative’s lifestyle business while financially strengthening the co-operative. With the addition of Wholesale Sports and Sportsman’s Warehouse, UFA is a major North American force in the outdoor adventure industry.

UFA’s 2007 revenues were more than $1.8 billion, ranking it among the 40 largest Alberta companies in terms of revenue, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers and Alberta Venture magazine. In 2008, UFA revenues will top $2 billion for the first time, having surpassed the $1 billion mark just four years ago.

“UFA is expanding beyond our traditional businesses to ensure that we can continue to serve our customers and owners.” Thorsteinson added, “Our growth reflects our commitment to the people who have owned UFA for 100 years.”

UFA Co-operative Limited is one of Alberta’s most dynamic enterprises. Canada’s largest re-seller of diesel products serves rural communities throughout Alberta, B.C. and Saskatchewan with a construction division and an unmatched network of retail stores and petroleum outlets.