One of the nation's Pork Powerhouses is getting more powerful.

The Maschoffs LLC announced Friday its agreement to buy "substantially all" of NPP, LLC, a transation including around 50,000 sows. The Maschoffs, based in Carlyle, Illinois, was listed as number 6 on the 2010 U.S. Pork Powerhouses list.

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The deal also includes "associated inventory and related market hog production, along with production facilities in Nebraska, Iowa and South Dakota," according to a report from The Maschoffs. Representatives of NPP and The Maschhoffs called the deal a "natural fit," citing the similar operating philosophies and values of the two organizations, according to the same report.

"The fact that our two organizations have similar values and operating philosophies should make this a smooth transition for our employees and customers," according to NPP chief operating officer Scott Burroughs.

Ken Maschhoff, CEO of The Maschhoffs, added, "We view this as a very attractive growth opportunity. NPP is well known for its strong production performance and like us, its intense focus on animal care and husbandry."

NPP, LLC, formerly known as Nebraska Pork Partners, operates approximately 80 farms throughout Nebraska, northwest Iowa and South Dakota, according to a company report. The companies expect the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval, to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2011.