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News
Grant Rogerson: Co-operation remains the foundation of rural success
Posted: May 27, 2026
Much has changed in agriculture and society since the foundation of our co-operative in 1872. But the principles ANM was built upon have endured.
Over more than 150 years, we have evolved significantly as a business, while remaining firmly grounded in the values at the heart of the organisation. Those principles continue to shape not only what we do, but how we do it.
As one of the country’s longest-established agricultural co-operatives, we recognise the importance of continuing to evolve while remaining true to the principles that built the business. The ethos of a co-operative is about working together to create value for members, but it is equally about recognising our role in supporting the wider rural economy. ANM has never operated in isolation. Our position within rural Scotland is a privilege, and with that comes a responsibility to support the people, businesses and communities that depend upon it.
For us, it starts with practical support. Paying our customers on the day, as we have always done, but also following through by having the means for farmers to deposit payments such as our partnership with the RBS mobile banking units to help cash flow. Increased Stock on Agreement and short-term lending capacity also gives our members greater confidence to plan ahead, invest and grow sustainably. When farming businesses are correctly supported, the benefits extend far beyond the farm gate, strengthening local supply chains, sustaining jobs and supporting communities.
The quality of those businesses is evident every time stock enters our sale rings, but the upcoming local agricultural shows and events such as the Royal Highland Show also provide an important local and national shop window for Scottish agriculture and deserve strong support. This year, we’re delighted to deepen our relationship with the RHASS through our support of the RHS President’s Initiative, showcasing Aberdeenshire, before and during this year’s event. It is another example of partnership delivering real value and proof that progress is strongest when responsibility is shared.
We have always understood that our role extends beyond the auction ring. Supporting the wider rural economy is part of our DNA, as it should be for every organisation operating within a rural landscape. We all have a role to play – from publications such as the P&J, who provide an important voice for the sector, to organisations including NFUS and QMS, who continue to advocate on behalf of rural businesses and communities. Strong rural infrastructure depends upon partnership, collaboration and organisations pulling in the same direction.
There is a strong culture of co-operation across the sector, built around a shared commitment to rural prosperity. But government also has a responsibility to ensure support is targeted where it delivers the greatest impact. This is not about asking for more money. It is about using existing resources more effectively. Too often, policy decisions fail to reflect the realities of food production and the long-term sustainability of rural businesses and communities. There must be a greater understanding of the practical realities on the ground, because no amount of collaboration can fully compensate for policies that fail to support productive agriculture.
In many ways, that brings us back to the same principle our founders understood in 1872: long-term success depends on people working together to strengthen rural businesses and communities. More than 150 years later, that remains as true as ever. We achieve far more together than we ever will apart, and we must continue working together to make sure rural Scotland thrives for generations to come.