ATS Newsbrief December 2014
Last month’s AGM provided an opportunity to share with members the development of ATS over the last financial year and outline some of the opportunities and challenges which lie ahead.
Phil McKendry, ATS Chairman
The AGM saw Ian Mackenzie and Alister Body re‑elected for a further three year term to the ATS Board of Directors. Jack Allan stood down from the Directors remuneration committee and Dick Johnson was duly elected as his replacement, joining Stuart Wilson and John Falloon.
The launch of the Ruralco card in July 2013 had an impact on ATS’s financial performance, both because of the divesting the supplier card business and as a result of the set up costs for the new venture. Since then, we have focussed on improving operating efficiency in what makes up ATS today—its Farm Supplies, fuel, fertiliser, electricity and seed trading divisions, and indications are these are all performing well in the current financial year. Even before taking into account the dividend from Ruralco which has been paid out since the balance date, ATS’s cash position strengthened significantly over the past year. Full benefits from this refreshing of ATS’s operations will be realised in the current year. The last couple of years have seen a big strategic push to become more outward looking, while remaining true to the local ATS core. ATS exists because our members have, through it, committed to ensuring Canterbury is the most competitive market for farm supplies in NZ. It does this by operating an efficient business complemented by strong relationships with members and suppliers. An increased ATS member card spend of $7million last year indicates that ATS members have been very supportive of the Ruralco initiative which has offered a wider supplier network with enhanced discounts. The fuel offering of Ruralco merits special mention as it has prompted much competition in the market and remains a very competitive offering when true comparisons are done. Board and management focus for the current year is upon continually improving operating efficiencies across all of ATS and supporting our investment in Ruralco. Achieving substantive growth in the current environment will be challenging, and will require some further investment. However we believe that our strong relationships with members and suppliers, coupled with the diversity of land use across Canterbury, gives a healthy resilience to the business. We plan to build on that to ensure your commitment to ATS continues to significantly and beneficially influence the farm supplies market in your favour. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year. We look forward to catching up with you in 2015.
UPCOMING EVENTS
December 25, 26 & 27
Christmas Day & Boxing Day ATS will be closed Christmas Day Thursday 25 December, Boxing Day Friday 26 December and Saturday 27 December. If members have any emergency requirements the duty manager can be reached on 03 307 5100 or 027 487 6865.
January 1, 2 & 3 All ATS stores will be closed New Year’s Day Thursday 1, Friday 2 January and Saturday 3 January. If members have any emergency requirements the duty manager can be reached on 03 307 5100 or 027 487 6865. UPCOMING INDUSTRY EVENTS
December 9
Methven Farm Systems Group This Farm Systems Group discusses and investigates farm systems and farm related issues on the host farm, including current topics and upcoming seasonal matters. It is an open forum that utilises the experience of all members in the group. For more information contact Juliette Lee on 021 232 834.
December 10
Biz Start North Canterbury Biz Start is a course designed for people who are looking to start their own business in the next couple of years. It is a closed group, but there is still room to join for the 2014/15 season. Sessions in the Biz Start groups will focus on building business and people management skills to equip you for senior level management positions, or owning or running your own farm business. If you are interested in joining this monthly course or for more information, contact Virginia Serra on 021 932 515.
Advance Ashburton Community Foundation Scholarships & Funding Advance Ashburton welcome applications for 18 currently available educational scholarships plus additional funding for community organisations. Closing date for the Scholarships is 19 December 2014. For further information please see www.advanceashburton.co.nz