How RLF helps our Co-operative Farming Groups
- By enabling them to take advantage of volume discounts as well as utilising other economies of scale with respect to the purchase of seeds, fertilisers and chemicals
- through the provision of tools and support with respect to Nutrient Removal science
- by giving access to the RLF product distribution network so that appropriate and affordable products continue to be available for farmers who combine their efforts and endeavours to remain viable
- by having valuable regard for customer input, feedback and instructions in support of improving the supply and delivery of RLF products targeted for their needs
- through its strong team of Plant Scientists always available to offer advice and information about the best way forward
About Co-operative Farming Groups
Co-operative Farming Organisations have many different structures and formats in different regions of the world, but are all defined by their co-operative participation. The system in which individual farmers pool their resources to buy commodities such as seed and fertiliser enables maximum return for their efforts. And, they usually collectively market their produce.
In agriculture there are broadly three types of co-operative operations. They are :
Marketing and manufacture
Individually farmers may find themselves at a disadvantage when negotiating a financial return for their crop. As a co-operative, their crops and produce can be delivered in large aggregated quantities through the normal marketing channels, enabling greater profit share for each farmer.
Financial
It is often difficult for individual farmers to access bank loans. Transaction costs and interest rates may be cost prohibitive and individual farmers may be unable to establish sufficient collateral to offset their application for finance. Co-operative Farming Groups often group together to provide funds that can be loaned out to each other or other small-holding farming enterprises.
Machinery
To justify the cost of expensive farm machinery, (which may only have irregular or limited use), Co-operative Farming Groups often form a machinery pool that distributes the cost between several farmers. This equipment is then shared.
RLF is well placed to support its Co-operative Farming Groups and is proud of its partnership with them.