MPS Eggs: A legacy of sustainable farming and innovation

The history of MPS Egg Farms dates back to 1875, when Daniel Strauss built a water-powered grain mill in North Manchester, Indiana. Over the years, his business evolved to serve the changing needs of a small town, selling everything from coal and ice to animal feed and even a little moonshine. Daniel’s great-grandson, Donald (Don) Strauss, joined the family business in 1950, helping it move forward for the next decade.

1970 – Construction begins on Hi-Grade Egg Producers in North Manchester, IN. Pictured: Bob Krouse and Don Strauss (left to right)

In 1960, Don purchased a Purina feed franchise that served many local egg farmers. After noticing that the egg industry was becoming more consolidated, Don made the decision to start producing feed in-house, without the third-party markup. Eight years later, the Strauss family decided to bring egg production in-house as well, partnering with the Manwaring family to establish Midwest Poultry Services (MPS).

Hi-Grade North Manchester in the late 1980s

With each new generation, the business has embraced advancements in agricultural practices while holding steadfast to core values of quality, care, and responsibility. Today, the farm is still operated by the sixth generation of the founding family, demonstrating an enduring commitment to their land, animals, and community. Over time, MPS has expanded its operations to meet the rising demand for its eggs, evolving into one of the largest and most respected egg producers in the nation.

Corporate office in North Manchester, IN – built in 2019

MPS Eggs has earned a reputation for leading the industry in animal welfare and sustainable farming. At the heart of their operation is a commitment to high standards of animal husbandry. MPS’s partnership with Kipster, a renowned Dutch brand known for its ethical and sustainable egg production, further emphasises their dedication to animal care and environmental stewardship.

A Commitment to Sustainability

In addition to their innovative approaches to animal care, MPS Eggs has made significant strides in sustainability. The farm has adopted several eco-friendly initiatives, underscoring their commitment to reducing their environmental footprint.

One of their larger initiatives is the installation of solar panels, which generate clean, renewable energy to power a portion of the farm’s operations.

Waste management is another key component of their sustainability strategy. The farm utilises advanced systems to manage waste produced by its chickens, converting it into useful resources like compost. This approach not only reduces waste but also enriches the soil, creating a closed-loop system that benefits both the environment and the farm’s operations.

MPS also prioritises sustainability through the use of Hartmann moulded fibre egg packaging. Made from recycled materials and 100% biodegradable and compostable, their protective and eco-friendly cartons align with the growing consumer demand for sustainable product packaging.