Ernest Ritter Jr. moved from his family’s farm in Iowa to work a timber and sawmill operation in Poinsett County, Arkansas in 1886. Shortly thereafter, he began acquiring, clearing, and farming substantial landholdings. With the help of his wife, Anna, and other investors, Mr. Ritter established various businesses in Northeast Arkansas over the course of his life. These included a mercantile store, ice plant, bank, utilities, telephone company, and more. Since then, E. Ritter & Company has adapted through many social and economic changes and five generations of family members have proudly continued the Ritter legacy of hard work and entrepreneurship. Today the Ritter Family owns a portfolio of businesses in diverse industries operating in across the United States. Read more about our full portfolio.

Ritter Agribusiness remains 100% family-owned, is headquartered in Marked Tree, Arkansas, and is committed to collaborative relationships with tenant growers and responsible stewardship of the land and water resources we manage.

We aim to support and strengthen the communities we serve by providing resources, leadership, and necessary collaboration to meet local needs. Learn more about our philanthropic efforts.