THE Riverland-based almond co-operative Almondco Australia has been named the Australian Regional Exporter of the Year for the second time in five years.
The co-operative of 140 growers from SA, VIC and NSW was one of twelve national winners at the 54th Australian Export Awards held in Brisbane recently.
Judges described Almondco as a strong business with positive export growth prospects and “a strong advocate of the Australian agricultural industry”.
Almondco processes and markets the crops of 85 per cent of all almond growers in Australia.
Almondco managing director Brenton Woolston said the award was the result of a team effort.
“To be recognised as one of the best operators in the country underlines the quality of people involved throughout our value chain,” he said.
“More than one million tonnes of almonds are produced across the world every year, so to maintain a point of difference as a co-operative is very important.
“Our mission is to maximise value for all stakeholders, from our smallest grower member through to the largest retail chain, and we have always recognised that we must compete on something more than price.
“Delivering for our members and customers remains our priority.”
Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals chief executive officer Melina Morrison said the award was an important recognition of a great Australian business at a time when agricultural co-operatives were coming back into fashion.
“Co-operatives help farmers compete in global markets and improve returns to the farmgate and provide a way for smaller producers to unite to gain access to markets that favour larger players," she said.
“By cutting out the middle guy, co-operatives ensure all the benefits flow back to the producers.
“This improves the level of reinvestment on the farm and strengthens the local economy since profits don’t leak out of the region.”
The Australian Export Awards is a national program that recognises and honours Australian companies engaged in international business who have achieved sustainable growth through innovation and commitment.
