Analysing Andrew's article (part 2 - pros)

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By Dwain Duxson

Analysing Andrew's article (part 2 - pros) - Andrew Whitelaw, the proud former Scot, is a well-known Grains and Input Analyst with his company Episode 3. Andrew recently wrote an article about Farmer's working together to save money on Inputs. The article in question, which I think has a lot of merit, can be read here. 

We have had some good responses from part 1. As usual, they were wide and varied, which is what we expect these days as we know that no two Farms are the same and no two Farmers operate the same. Hence, the differing views. Read about part 1, the cons here.

So the pros are, I think a buying group can be done with Fertiliser, but it would have to be in small groups that have a common goal. It could be a group that wants to pick it up or get it delivered at the same time (eg, same month). Or it could be a local group that wants to buy locally. Probably 10 Farmers max. We at Farm Tender currently have a collection of over 500 Farmers that are in a "Fert Group", and we would look at setting up something for small groups. The first thing is to get yourself added to the group. Please text Ellen on 0418 137 224 and write "please add," and we will add you to the group. From there, we will expand our thinking. 

We had another interesting reply from a participant in a small Co-op in the Mallee area of Vic. They have 15 active members who have expanded from just buying inputs, insurance, etc to buying at other local retail stores, and they work it so they only have to pay 1 invoice a month. They have also bought some Machinery and Equipment as well, like a Seed Cleaner and a Track Renovator, and they all share it. They go for things they all don't need at the same time. It's a really innovative group, and they have adapted their model over the years. Impressive. What are your thoughts? I am very interested in this subject. Reply to dwaind@farmtender.com.au 

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