The agriculture industry has experienced significant change since the first CRT meeting was held at the Canobolas Hotel, Orange in 1970, writes Greg O’Neil*.
In the past 50 years Australian farmers have adopted more innovative practices, state-of-the-art technology and better processes to produce more with less and achieve strong productivity growth.
CRT has also grown with these changes and what started with a member base of six has evolved into Australia’s largest group of independent rural retails, with more than 300 stores across the country.
We know how important Australia’s independent rural retailers are, so we are determined to continue pushing for a better deal for our members and their farming customers. That’s why we are excited to deliver even more value through CRT’s enhanced service offering.
Servicing the agricultural merchandise inputs market, including cropping, animal systems, fertiliser, fencing and seed, CRT is able to leverage its scale to provide the largest and most competitive purchasing platform.
This is supported by a centralised administration system, warehousing and digital business portal making it easier for members to do business with CRT. Our members also have access to an exclusive proprietary range of products and the scale of our globally-backed buying power.
Our members are proudly independently owned and operated but being part of the CRT group allows them to also network and learn from one another, and ensure they are providing the gold class service and products that their customers expect of their local CRT store.
Importantly it also allows our members to stop getting bogged down in admin and get on with the job. Removing this administration burden allows our members to focus on supporting their farmer customers and drive their business forward.
However, this has never been a transactional relationship. CRT is based on the people, relationships, and customised service. It all starts with the people. Our team across Australia offer meaningful insights, consistent support, and are passionate about supporting farming businesses to be more productive and profitable.
The past two years have been particularly challenging for the industry, with various disruptions caused by COVID, supply chain issues and seasonal conditions.
CRT is well positioned to manage the unexpected and ensure our members and farmers have access to the range of products they need at the right time to make the most of positive market and climate conditions.
We care about our members and their local towns, so we are proud to support these communities through initiatives like the CRT Primary Schools Program, which this year delivered $50,000 to meaningful school projects in rural and regional Australia.
Built by years of hands-on experience and local knowledge, CRT is the go-to local agricultural business partner for thousands of farmers across the country.
Farming jobs big and small – they all start with CRT. From animal health and management to crop protection, seed, and water. We customise our offering to specific areas and grower needs, the options and opportunities are endless, but it all starts with CRT.
*Greg O’Neil is the general manager of CRT, a position he’s held for almost 40 years.
