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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...

This year Ruralco is proud to be celebrating its 60th anniversary, and 60 years of supporting farmers for a brighter farming future.

This year’s Ruralco Instore Days prize draw period kicked off on June 1. Every $250 spent with Ruralco Instore Days participating suppliers until July 9 enabled members one entry in the draw to win one of three House of Travel vouchers valued at $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000.

Neil Bateup, has witnessed some drastic changes to his rural community over the past 30 years, changes which have made farming easier, but in other ways significantly tougher and more isolated.

Ruralco’s 29th annual Instore Days has proved to be a great success despite cautious expectations leading up to the event.

There’s even more cause for celebration at this year’s Ruralco Instore Days as the farming co-operative gears up for its 60th anniversary.

New to the Ruralco Board is chartered accountant and farmer Rhea Booker. Originally hailing from Waikato, Rhea’s parents came to New Zealand as immigrants, working their way up the dairy industry ladder from farm workers to farm ownership while raising their six children.

Knowledge, experience, and passion for agriculture are key drivers behind new Ruralco Chair Sir David Carter.