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As Christmas looms on the horizon and the new government ministers catch their breath before kicking off the new year, farming leaders have some advice for them about the urgent matters they need to consider for their first term in their new roles. 

Tony Aitken is the first to admit he’s no expert when it comes to farming. Instead, Tony’s expertise is in leading people and helping businesses deliver positive outcomes and grow.

The 2023 financial year has been challenging for agriculture and for Ruralco. “Our business is closely intertwined with our farmers’ businesses. We have been heartened by your support despite the difficult times we have all faced with rising costs and the economic downturn putting pressure on our budgets and reducing overall margins,” says Ruralco Board Chair, Sir David Carter in reporting the Group’s $2.1 million loss for the 2023 financial year at last night’s 60t...

Many older farmers today will well recall the anger and frustration expressed by many New Zealanders in the early sixties when the UK announced its decision to enter the European Economic Community.

A visit from South Dakota State University students to Mid Canterbury farms is a win-win.

Ruralco has appointed the co-operative’s GM People and Culture, Tony Aitken as its Group CEO.

Ruralco is proud of its heritage, its people, the events and the milestones that have helped shape the cooperative and make it what it is 60 years on from its beginning.

Ruralco Group CEO Robert Sharkie has announced his intention to resign after six years as CEO and a total of eight years with the Ashburton based co-operative. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Ruralco, the challenges it has provided, and I am very proud of Ruralco’s achievements during my time at the helm,” says Robert. “It is the dedication and passion of the people who work for Ruralco that has made these achievements possible and I commend them for their effo...

Today marked Ruralco’s 60th anniversary, and this significant milestone was celebrated at the co-operative’s three stores with cake-cutting and stories of days gone by. An enthusiastic group of early shareholders and former staff members joined the Ruralco team, with Group CEO Robert Sharkie, and Ruralco Chair, Sir David Carter both acknowledging the foresight of the farmers behind the establishment of the co-operative back in 1963. Those Mid Canterbury farmers got together...

A farm-based agronomy project aimed at identifying key drivers of yield and profitability for oilseed rape is proving a great way for growers to test and share ideas.