Courteenhall Farms

Why did you join Camgrain?

We joined Camgrain many years ago when the cooperative built the store at Kettering. We were attracted by the opportunities to add value, obtain cheaper drying, tap into more professional marketing, and diversify our storage risk and type. We also really liked the idea of being part of a farming coop and joining a network and have added to our tonnage twice since we originally became members.

How have you seen Camgrain changed over the years?

The growth and increasing professionalisation of Camgrain has been very notable, but it’s also been great that so many key faces have remained as a constant.

What are the challenges Camgrain have helped members overcome?

Camgrain helps us to add value to a commodity crop in what is usually a tough market where every little counts due to tight margins. Its cost-efficient drying can be a lifesaver for us in a tricky harvest. By buying storage with them at a much cheaper rate per tonne, it’s also enabled us to invest in other profitable ventures with the money we would have otherwise spent on a new grain store.

How do you think Camgrain can help farmers in the future?

Farming is unlikely to get easier, so sticking together and working as a big entity should enable us to negotiate with customers directly and effectively. This will also apply to contracts which will target regen farming, biodiversity, and carbon. Ventures like the Navarra plant should also offer us members useful direct routes to market.