Our history
Discover the history of Expana. With a combined heritage of over 200 years, we’re a global leader in providing market intelligence on agrifood-focused ingredients, energy, and industrial materials.
Providing proprietary commodity price data and analysis since 1858
We have been helping customers navigate the complex commodity markets and make smarter investment decisions for nearly two centuries: From the early days of market reporting, when Mr. Urner personally interviewed merchants in New York City, to the present day where leading brands rely on Expana for the best data.
Our intelligence has always been integral to businesses and supply chains. As Mintec and AgriBriefing, we were renowned for innovation in market news and food industry market reporting. Both Mintec’s and AgriBriefing’s history lies in developing specialist knowledge and profound expertise. Since becoming Expana, we are that and much more—a global powerhouse providing the data that helps feed the world. The timeline below sets out the evolution of Expana.
1858
Founding of Urner Barry
Urner Barry is established as a leading provider of market news, analysis, and Benchmark pricing for the food industry, laying the foundation for future developments in commodity market intelligence and establishing one of the first Price Reporting Agencies of its kind.
1882
Expansion into daily reporting
The Urner Publishing Company is formed by Benjamin Urner, Frank Urner, and William C. Taber, publishing the Producers’ Price-Current as a daily circular, establishing itself as a trusted source for New York Benchmark prices and information.
1970s
Introduction of new publications and services
Urner Barry broadens its reporting realm into new markets with new publications and services, such as the Seafood Price Current (1975), Executive Conference (1976), and the acquisition of National Provisioner’s Yellow Sheet (1992).
1980
Launching of COMTELL
Urner Barry launches COMTELL, a comprehensive market data platform providing real-time pricing and market analysis for agricultural commodities, revolutionizing information access for industry professionals.
1982
Founding of Mintec
Mintec is established as a provider of market intelligence and price data, aiming to assist businesses in making informed decisions in procurement and pricing strategies, initially focusing on the food and beverage industry.
1993
Formation of Tallage and launch of Stratégie Grains
Tallage established – and Stratégie Grains launched – by AgroParisTech graduates to specialize in European grain and oilseed markets. Over the years, their focus expanded to include world analysis as well as biofuels, animal feed, durum wheat and malting barley, solidifying their leadership in agricultural market research.
1999
Formation of Feedinfo
Feedinfo quickly becomes the top animal nutrition and feed sector intelligence service. Offering essential tools for feed industry players, including a unique feed additive industry price reporting service and comprehensive news coverage, Feedinfo remains the industry favorite for informed decision-making.
2010
Formation of Tropical Research Services
Tropical Research Services collects, analyzes, and provides tropical commodity product research and data. It has a comprehensive historical database and field teams, making it a valuable resource for procurement, portfolio management, and hedging strategies in the tropical commodities sector.
2014
Founding of CommoPrices
CommoPrices founded, previously part of the Reussir Group. This European market intelligence provider selects, structures, and displays thousands of price indices, enabling companies to monitor price movements in agrifood, metals, energy, chemicals, plastics, elastomers, fertilizers, and other materials.
2017
Launch of Mintec Analytics
Mintec introduces Mintec Analytics, a sophisticated platform that leverages advanced analytics and data visualization tools to provide clients with enhanced market insights and decision-making capabilities.
2020
Strategic partnerships and recognition
Mintec forges strategic partnerships with industry associations, consultancies, and procurement organizations to stay at the forefront of market intelligence, receiving recognition and awards for its innovative solutions and contributions to the industry.
2021
Mintec becomes the first IOSCO assured agrifood Price Reporting Agency
2021
Expansion into forecasting with Kairos Commodities acquisition
Mintec expands its services to provide a comprehensive forecasting service by acquiring top commodity market analysis and forecasting provider, Kairos Commodities.
2021
Global reach and technological advancements
Mintec is a global leader in commodity market intelligence, serving clients in over 50 countries across various industries.
2022
Mintec acquires CommoPrices
Mintec accelerates its growth in the $139Bn global data market by acquiring French business CommoPrices, an independent provider of commodity price data and analysis.
2022
Urner Barry & Feedinfo receive IOSCO assurance
Feedinfo becomes the first IOSCO-assured PRA in the feed additive sector & Urner Barry becomes the first PRA to offer IOSCO-assured Benchmarks for Eggs, Seafood, Chicken, Turkey & Red Meat.
2023
Mintec acquires AgriBriefing
Mintec expands its services by acquiring AgriBriefing, extending its reach into the agriculture, food, and animal feed sectors. AgriBriefing’s brands, including FeedInfo, Strategie Grains, Tropical Research Services, and the renowned Urner Barry (established in 1858), complement Mintec’s offerings. Together, they provide the widest range of agrifood commodity prices, market analysis, insights, and forecasts available.
2024
Mintec becomes largest IOSCO assured PRA in the agricultural space
Mintec passes an independent IOSCO audit led by BDO, encompassing methodologies from Mintec, Urner Barry and Feedinfo, making it the go to place for reliable benchmark prices in the agricultural sector.
2024
Rebranding to Expana
The Mintec Group consolidates all its operations under a unified brand name, Expana. This streamlining enhances market visibility and creates synergies among previously distinct entities, making Expana a cohesive powerhouse in the industry, delivering integrated solutions, and driving innovation across diverse offerings.
2025
Expana Platform Launches
The Expana platform goes live, combining 200+ years of experience to become the most comprehensive agrifood commodity solution in the world.
2026
Expana IQ Connect Launches
Expana launches its own MCP, allowing customers to access accurate verified data directly in their AI.
Who we are
Leadership
We understand the importance of experienced leadership, which is why the global Expana leadership team consists of individuals who care deeply about our company, strategy, and people.
About
With over 200 years of combined expertise, trust, and leading market intelligence, we help create a more resilient, transparent, and sustainable food supply chain.
Be a part of the team – where opportunities meet growth
At Expana, you can thrive in a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and culture. Take the next step in your career with us.