Ruralco CEO Wins Excellence in Business Leadership at ANZ Business of the Year Awards
Tony Aitken, chief executive of Ruralco, has been awarded the Excellence in Business Leadership Award at the ANZ Business of the Year Awards.
“We’ve worked hard over the last 12 months to focus on what matters most, lowering the cost of farm inputs for our local farmers,” says Ruralco chief executive Tony Aitken.
“Instore Days has always been about more than great deals; it’s about people. It’s about connecting our members with the products, knowledge and innovations that support their business, backing local businesses who are part of our farming community, and helping farmers and their businesses prepare for the season ahead.”
This year’s Instore Days will take place on 3rd and 4th of July, and as always will deliver exclusive deals for co-operative members, while showcasing what’s new and innovative from across the agricultural sector.
“We’re incredibly proud of how our merchants and supplier partners come together to deliver real value for our members and help us create an event that celebrates the importance and innovation of agriculture,” says Aitken.
With more than 80 exhibitors onsite at the Ashburton store, Instore Days offers members the chance to access expert advice on key areas such as farm supplies, seed, fertiliser, energy, fuel, and agricultural services. Alongside the deals, the event provides a relaxed, social setting, where members can chat with merchants, suppliers, and Ruralco staff, whilst connecting with fellow farmers over lunch, with food trucks on site both days.
For those closer to Methven or Rakaia, the local Ruralco stores offer the same great deals, the chance to catch up with the team, and a bite to eat. For those unable to attend in person, many of the offers will also be available online or by phone. Several Ashburton-based merchants will also run their own in-store promotions during the event, adding even more local value and vibrancy to the two-day celebration.
Beyond the deals, Instore Days is a chance to talk shop, swap stories, and connect with the people who help power local farming. “Instore Days has become a cornerstone event in Mid Canterbury,” Aitken adds.
“It brings together farmers, merchants, and suppliers in a genuinely valuable way. Ruralco was founded by Mid Canterbury farmers in 1963 looking to lower input costs for their farming operations and that local ownership and core focus remain just as strong as we look to the future."
