AGM Reviews Record Growth

5 March 2007

Cornwall Farmers, the farming and country supplies cooperative, has reported record growth in 2006 despite difficult trading conditions for the agricultural economy. The company distributed £64 million of vital farm and country supplies representing growth of 19% year on year.

“The last two years have seen change in farming like nothing else in 60 years. We choose this time to completely overhaul and restructure the co-operative to be fit for purpose for the current and next generation of members and customers” explained Chief Executive Andrew Cocks.

Chairman William Thomas was delighted with the performance “Change of this scale comes with its risks. It is quite remarkable how our management team and the 350 staff have handled the project and achieved growth in both Devon and Cornwall. We gave them a huge task and they pulled it off.”

Cornwall Farmers is perhaps best known for it supply of farm inputs such as seed, fertiliser, animal feeds and crop protection services and these grew by 11% overall. More and more people now realise Cornwall Farmers also operates machinery franchises and sells clothing, equestrian, garden, DIY and pet products through its 16 retail branches.

“Our machinery division exceeded all expectations by delivering a 45% increase in sales for the year. Farm machinery sales were strong perhaps reflecting improving farmer confidence in the sector. Sales of lawn mowers and groundscare equipment to golf courses and the general public certainly boosted our performance.” Said Brian Tripcony, machinery general manager.

The burgeoning retail business saw growth of 29% for the co-operative. “This came from two factors” explained Mr. Cocks. “Firstly our acquisition of Countrywest last year enabled us to increase the number of stores from 14 to 16 across Devon and Cornwall and to move a further 5 branches into new sites with much better facilities. Secondly, through marketing and word of mouth, more and more people realise you don’t have to be a member of the co-operative to be able to buy at farmers’ prices.”

The Cornwall Farmers Annual General Meeting will be held at Alverton Manor Hotel in Truro at 11:00am on Friday 9th March. The event includes the Chief Executives’ review, a buffet lunch and a guest speaker. Call Lisa on 01872 274301 if you would like to attend.