A loyalty programme for farmers has been launched by north-east livestock auctioneers Aberdeen & Northern Marts (ANM) – which is offering preferential rates of commission for shareholding customers.
Commission rates are being reduced across all stock sold at the co-operative’s Thainstone and Caithness centres from January 1, with the maximum charge falling to 3.5% – but only for farmers who invest a minimum of £500 in shares in the wider ANM Group.
Otherwise, the average rate of commission will remain at 3.8%.
ANM chief executive Grant Rogerson claimed the move would be a boost to members by rewarding their loyalty.
He added: “As an innovating co-operative, we fully expect this will provide wider leadership for the entire livestock market sector.
“This positive step will further enhance benefits for members.
“But this is just the start – the more members that use the mart, the more we can support them and their businesses.
“That’s the unique benefit of our co-operative business model.”
Existing members who already own at least the minimum shareholding will be entitled to the new rates.
ANM Group chairman Pete Watson, of Darnford Farm, Banchory, said the board wanted to ensure more and more farmers across the region take advantage of the transparency offered by selling in the ring.
“We’ve arranged a special board meeting towards the end of December to allow us to approve new member applications, ensuring everyone who wants to, can take advantage of the new rates from January 1.
“We look forward to welcoming many new members to our co-operative.”
nnicolson@thecourier.co.uk
