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Randy Broesder, General Manager 04/14/09 11:56:20 AM
“We’re not the biggest, but we are the best, most personable coop in the area,” remarked General Manager Randy Broesder. “We are built on service, not price.” With a progressive philosophy, Randy’s goal is to help Farmers Coop Association continue to grow, capitalizing on the substantial growth achieved since 2003. Part of that strategy for Randy includes involving employees in more decision making. “Our staff provides a lot of good insight and imagination,” Randy stated. “We are using that information to improve our service to our customers.” One of Randy’s personal goals is to support the local communities with Farmers Coop Association locations. “I live and spend here,” he stated. “It’s a philosophy I want our customers to know about and believe in themselves.” Farmers Coop Association maintains its headquarters in Forest City, Iowa, where they have grain, LP, retail fuel, and fertilizer facilities. A feed mill is located in Leland, Iowa, and they operate a grain handling location, feed mill, and fertilizer plant in Kiester, Minnesota. Members of Farmers Cooperative Association have built a strong business. “Our balance sheet is very strong,” Randy commented. “We have well-maintained facilities and excellent employees.” More than ever before, cash flow has become a concern as a result of higher prices for inputs and commodities. Working capital was increased to $2.2 million last year as Farmers Coop has to buy fertilizer and chemicals early which takes operating money. Prices for all inventory products - grain, feed, agronomy, and fuel - also increased. Concern over working capital comes at a time when sales are at record highs. • Grain volume was up 528,000 bushels - 6,832,561 • Bean volume was up 1,527,000 • Fuel volume was up 194,500 gallons - 2,637,241 The cooperative system offers great advantages to its members. Purchases of farm inputs from other sources do not result in a dividend being paid back to the farmer as it does in the cooperative system. And there’s no elected board of directors to represent your interests at other retail stores. “I’ve been working in the cooperative system since I graduated from community college,” Randy explained. “I believe in this system which gives its patrons a voice in its direction and success. It’s your business – I will do all I can to make it better.”
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