27 th September 2006
Great Southern Farmer
INDEPENDENTS GET A NEW GO IN WA
A new agreement between FarmWorks Australia and Australian Independent Rural Retailers will offer independent retailers more buying power in a market traditionally dominated by corporate suppliers.
The two companies have aligned to create a national buying consortium for general merchandise and animal health products.
AIRR has appointed FarmWorks branches and distributors throughout WA and SA as the consortium's exclusive representatives.
AIRR managing director Peter Law recently conducted an information session on the new venture at the FarmWorks head office in Osborne Park.
AIRR Managing Director Peter Law, FarmWorks General Merchandise and Animal Health Manager Ross Waller, Synergy Consulting Managing Director David Pfeiffer
Law says the concept was driven by a need to independents in the market to come together, generating better buying power.
The level of interest generated by this new concept was reflected by the response to the day with more than 50 rural merchandise operators attending.
For FarmWorks agents, the partnership with AIRR means better buying of general merchandise and annual health products through a massive national network.
FarmWorks agent Mark Jury from York Rural Traders says he has already noticed the advantages of the partnership.
"I have seen huge benefits through FarmWorks alliance with AIRR. I have access to a complete range of branded products and am able to offer very competitive prices," he says.
"It ensures that when facing competition from the corporate merchandise companies, FarmWorks agents can match or more often than not beat their prices."
Law says the AIRR concept was the culmination of 26 years experience in wholesale general merchandise and animal health.
FarmWorks Australia is keen to hear from any independents who are interested in taking advantage of the cost savings that are part of being aligned with AIRR.
For further information contact Fred Lyon or John Smith on 9347 0555.