Wilders Wagyu Announces Complete Acquisition of Triangle B Ranch Herd

North Carolina-based program marks a significant milestone in the U.S. Wagyu industry

 Turkey, N.C. — January 6, 2025

Wilders Wagyu is thrilled to announce the complete acquisition of the renowned Triangle B Ranch (TBR) herd. This monumental transaction solidifies Wilders Wagyu’s position as one of the largest Fullblood Wagyu producers in the United States and marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to produce the best Wagyu beef and genetics in the industry.

Triangle B Ranch has been a cornerstone of the Wagyu industry for over 22 years, producing high-functioning cattle with exceptional foundational genetics. 

Don Brown Shares His Confidence in Wilders Don Brown, Owner of Triangle B Ranch, expressed his enthusiasm for the transition: “I’ve been following Wilders’ growth in our industry for some time. I could not think of a better program to carry on our legacy than them. I am excited to see what they do with it. They are the future of our industry. Their passion, knowledge, and strong team is something rare. The sky is the limit for what they can accomplish.”

This acquisition not only allows Wilders Wagyu to build on TBR’s achievements and continue shaping the future of the Wagyu industry, but it also serves as a pivotal step toward establishing a comprehensive Fullblood Wagyu supply chain, reinforcing the company’s standing as a "beef company first." 

Founder Reid Smith Reflects on the Acquisition “Don Brown is a legend in our industry. We have learned so much from him over the years, and even the opportunity to do this deal with him is a huge blessing,” said Reid Smith, Founder and Owner of Wilders Wagyu. “With this acquisition, we feel the potential is endless. Adding this herd to what we have been building will truly be special, and we are excited to produce the best genetics and beef in the Wagyu industry.”

Carrying Forward a Legacy: For Wilders Wagyu’s Director of Agriculture, Jake Newbold, this acquisition is deeply personal: “Don has been such a mentor to me. Working with him on this deal has been an honor. I cannot wait to continue his legacy and build on what he created at Triangle B.”

Andrew Coates, Herd Manager at Wilders Wagyu, emphasized the genetic value of the herd: “The genetics in the Triangle B herd are some of the most proven in the U.S. This acquisition strengthens the genetic diversity of our herd and allows us to produce the best beef possible from the most functional cows available.”

“The addition of the Triangle B herd not only brings foundational genetics to Wilders but also accelerates our ability to build out a Fullblood Wagyu beef supply chain at scale,” added Newbold. “This acquisition helps us make up ground quickly and reinforces our leadership in this growing market.”

This acquisition includes some of the few original, direct Takeda-bred cows left in the U.S.—a rarity in the Wagyu industry. Wilders Wagyu is honored to preserve and protect these foundational genetics. “I have worked my life to advance and steward the original Takeda genetics in my herd,” said Don Brown. “Working with Wilders, I am confident they will take these original Takeda-bred cows and steward them in a bright way to advance our industry.”

Highlighting Proven Excellence: TBR’s legacy and its impact on Wagyu genetics have set the bar for producers across the nation. The program has been responsible for record-setting sales, including:

Along with the herd acquisition, Wilders Wagyu becomes a partner in two influential bulls, SHOGUN and SHOGUN2, alongside Dean Ackerman of Flying A Wagyu. These bulls are foundational to the Wagyu industry, and their genetics represent a unique opportunity to enhance and promote Wilders’ breeding program. “I am excited to use, prove out, and help market these exceptional genetics,” said Jake Newbold.

Looking Ahead: With this complete acquisition, Wilders Wagyu is poised to expand its impact in the Wagyu industry by combining the unparalleled genetics and expertise of Triangle B Ranch with Wilders’ innovative breeding and production strategies.

"This acquisition isn’t just a milestone for Wilders Wagyu—it’s a pivotal moment for the entire Wagyu industry," said Brown. "I believe this acquisition strengthens what Wilders has built and firmly establishes them as the Leader in our Wagyu industry. 

This strategic move sets the stage for long-term industry leadership for Wilders Wagyu while reflecting its commitment to producing the best premium Fullblood Wagyu genetics and beef. 

For more information about Wilders Wagyu and this exciting acquisition, please visit wilderswagyu.com or contact marketing@wilders.com.

About Wilders Wagyu Wilders Wagyu is a leading producer of high-quality, Fullblood Wagyu beef and cattle, dedicated to advancing the industry through innovation, superior genetics, and a commitment to quality. Based in Eastern North Carolina, Wilders Wagyu combines time-honored practices with cutting-edge techniques to deliver the finest Wagyu beef and genetics in the market.

About Triangle B Ranch For over two decades, Triangle B Ranch has been a leader in the Wagyu industry, recognized for its high-functioning cattle, exceptional foundational genetics, and data-driven program. TBR has set industry records and earned a reputation for excellence in Wagyu breeding and production.

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