A change in ownership for the plant Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. currently operates at 800 Fifth St. N.W. won’t diminish Fort Dodge’s standing as a major source of pharmaceuticals for animals.

This plant is one of Fort Dodge’s largest employers with a workforce of about 500. That it will continue to thrive is good news for those workers and for our town.

It was announced Wednesday that Elanco U.S. Inc., a subsidiary of Eli Lilly Co., plans to buy the plant for $855 million and take ownership in January. The sale is dependent on the approval of the Federal Trade Commission and the completion of another transaction in which Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. is involved.

The long-term commitment of Elanco to this important facility is underscored by the fact that $100 million in improvement projects already in progress will continue. It’s clear that keeping this plant an industry leader is part of Elanco’s growth game plan.

Further evidence of the high regard the purchasers have for the Fort Dodge acquisition was provided in a statement from John C. Lechleiter, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Eli Lilly and Co.

“As a result of the acquisition, Elanco will bring greater value to customers by providing a suite of options for preventing common diseases in companion animals,” he said. “Coupled with our robust food animal portfolio, this addition further strengthens Elanco’s position in the global animal health business.”

The Messenger lauds this exciting investment in our community and welcomes Elanco to our town. We look forward to working with this new partner as we all strive to build a bright future for this community.