At Banterra, we strive to be your financial partner in all aspects of your banking needs, including offering products that fit your unique needs, building strong relationships, and providing support in every way we can to help your business succeed. One of the ways that we show that support is through Banterra’s “Meet The Merchant” blog series, which provides insight into the entrepreneurial journey of some of our business customers and then promoted through our marketing channels. This month we are excited to highlight Thomas Farms, a multi-generation family farm based in Springerton, Illinois. With a commitment to carrying their family’s legacy forward, the Thomas family continues to grow and evolve their operation while staying true to the values that built it. Through hard work, innovation, and strong community connections, they have built a farm that reflects both tradition and progress. Continue reading to hear from Luke Thomas as he shares more about their family’s story.

Tell Us About Thomas Farms

We are a family-owned grain farm located in Springerton, Illinois. Currently, we have three generations helping on the farm, including Grandpa Larry; our dad, Jeff; our mother, Julie; my brother, Seth; and myself. We grow corn, soybeans, and wheat. Our dad raises cattle and hogs as well. My brother and I are the fifth generation of the Thomas family to farm. Seth and I each have young children who enjoy being around the farm as well.

What Was The Inspiration Or Motivation In Starting Your Business?

We grew up on the farm and have been involved in agriculture our whole lives. Farming is all we think about - how can we do this better, or should we plant something different on this farm next year? Farming is in our blood. Seth and I went to Southern Illinois University Carbondale to further our education in agriculture. After we graduated, we brought new technology to the farm to continue to improve our operation.

Did You Always Dream Of Becoming An Entrepreneur?

I knew I wanted to be a farmer ever since I was a boy. Riding in a combine or a tractor was fun, and I couldn't wait until I was old enough to drive them by myself. There isn't a better feeling than when you first start combining in the fall or planting in the spring. I don't think it will ever get old.

How Has Your Business Grown Over The Years?

We have been very blessed to continue to grow our farm throughout multiple generations. By working hard and implementing new technologies, we have been able to improve yields and efficiencies, which has allowed us to expand our farm.

What Have You Done To Achieve Such Growth?

Our strong work ethic has helped us tremendously. We inherited that from our grandpa Larry. We have always operated with honesty and transparency. Trust is very important.
One thing we continually try to do is improve the land that we farm. We achieve land improvement by installing field tile, building terraces to reduce erosion, and increasing soil fertility.

What Is One Piece Of Advice You'd Give To Aspiring Entrepreneurs?

Always continue to learn and adapt. Learn from failures and mistakes.

How Does Your Community Play A Role In Your Success?

Relationships in our community are very important. From grain elevators to fertilizer dealers, we work with a wide variety of people throughout the year. Without them, we could not succeed.

How Has Banterra Helped Your Business To Become More Successful?

Our family has done business with Banterra for over 40 years. It started with our grandpa, and we have continued to work with Banterra throughout the years because they have always been very easy to work with.

Banterra has been vital to us being able to continue to expand our farm, whether it be grain storage expansion or purchasing a piece of farmland. It is very helpful to have a great bank that is local. If we need anything, they are just a short drive away.

Choosing Banterra As Your Business Banking Partner

Banterra is proud to support our business customers within our communities for more than 50 years. Whether it is banking products, loan offerings, or treasury management tools, we are dedicated to solutions that fit the unique needs of your business. If you are looking to start or grow your entrepreneurial journey, and need a bank that is truly a partner, connect with our team today.