In the quiet town of Jasper, Mo., you’ll find a legacy that began in 1947, and still thrives today. Carson Maneval, now at the helm of the family-owned Maneval, Inc., proudly represents the third generation of the business and is passionate about maintaining tradition while embracing modern innovation.
“My grandpa began our journey in 1947 with little knowledge of the ag world, running a grain elevator in Lamar,” Carson said. “It’s a legacy passed down from my grandfather to my father and his brothers, and now to me, my brother and my cousin.”
The dynamics of Maneval Inc. is a true family affair. While Carson oversees the overall operations, his brother and cousin manage building maintenance and accounting.
The industry has seen significant shifts since Carson’s grandfather ventured into the business. What began as a little grain elevator has adapted to meet the changing agricultural landscape around Jasper.
“It used to be predominantly cow-calf operations, around 85%. Now it’s about 70% cow-calf and 30% stocker,” Carson said. “We sell about 80% cattle feed and the rest is hogs, goats, and sheep.”
However, it’s not just about products. For Carson, the essence of Maneval Inc. lies in the service and diversity they offer.
“A lot of people make what we make in terms of commodity blends, but our service keeps us in the game,” Carson said. “About 17 years ago, we decided to utilize the rail lines and that gave us an edge in diversifying and having better access to quality feed ingredients. That plus our dedication to customer service, sets us apart.”
“A lot of people make what we make in terms of commodity blends, but our service keeps us in the game. About 17 years ago, we decided to utilize the rail lines and that gave us an edge in diversifying and having better access to quality feed ingredients. That plus our dedication to customer service, sets us apart.”
— Carson Maneval, General Manager, Maneval Inc.
In an age when big corporations are vying for market dominance, Maneval Inc. has faced its share of challenges, but Carson sees their agility and commitment to service as their ace card.
“When it comes to challenges, it’s big businesses selling direct,” he said. “But we’re quicker. We can deliver the same or next day. That’s where service speaks,” Carson said. He also mentioned the difficulties in navigating government regulations and red tape but remains committed to navigating these challenges.
Maneval, Inc. services areas stretching from Kansas City to northwest Arkansas. Yet, Carson is deliberate about their growth, ensuring that they remain grounded and focused on the core values his grandfather left behind.
“We plan to grow, but in the right way. I won’t throw my name out there and not be able to take care of people,” he emphasized.
One avenue for growth has been the integration of innovative new products into the store’s offering. MasterHand Milling’s distillers grain range cubes and pellets were among those new products added in 2022.
“I see this product being a huge part of our business,” Carson said. “Customer education is a big part of it when you have a product that is totally different. But the quality, the science behind it, and the service is there. If I’m going to sell something, put my name on it and back it, then I want it to be good.”
Carson believes the partnership with MasterHand Milling is a testament to Maneval’s commitment to provide the best to its customers, especially in challenging times like recent drought conditions.
“These [MHM cubes] were the timely product that people needed during the last year,” he said. “And we always have it on hand.”
In an ever-changing agricultural landscape, Maneval, Inc. stands as a testament to the power of legacy, innovation, and a relentless focus on customer needs. Carson, his family and his team continue to honor the heritage of the past while forging a promising path ahead.
