Oklahoma National Stockyards under contract

On April 30, the Oklahoma National Stockyards published a press release stating the business, which had been for sale for several months, is now under contract. ONSY is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is the last terminal market in existence and is a contributor to Oklahoma’s tourism. 

There were concerns that the historic stockyard’s location, which was founded in 1910 in Oklahoma City, could be purchased by an investor with plans to demolish the facility and develop a new real estate project in its prime location along Interstate 40. About 350,000 head of feeder cattle are sold through ONSY every year, making it a major livestock marketing destination for producers in the High Plains. 

Although most of the details surrounding the purchasing group have not been revealed, the release did name Chris Franklin as the managing member of the investors.

Franklin has assured the livestock industry it will be business as usual once the new owners take the reins. Franklin said the group is even discussing the possible development of adjoining properties to expand the facility. 

“Our focus remains on supporting our customers, preserving the stockyards’ role in Oklahoma’s and the nation’s agricultural economy, and fostering a thriving marketplace for the livestock industry,” Franklin said in the press release.  

Ben Hale, owner at Western Livestock Commission Company and Order Buying—which is one of the nine commission companies at ONSY—has a positive outlook on the future transition after meeting with the new buyers. 

“It’s an honor for our team at Western to play a role in preserving such a historic market,” Hale said in a statement. “There’s still work ahead, but we’re committed to seeing it through—for the good of our industry and everyone it serves.” 

The closing date for the sale is expected to be October, and more details about the transition are expected to be released in the coming months. A sales price was not disclosed. 

Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].