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Words by Annie Studholme
 

Canterbury-based Aakland Chemicals specialises in the independent manufacture and supply of quality detergents and sanitisers, teat sprays, molasses, bloat oil, mineral supplements and feed solutions for the dairy community.

With more than 25 years of industry experience, it has developed a comprehensive range of products to suit ever-changing market needs. All of its products are manufactured on-site in Christchurch. They are MPI-approved and certified, with some specialised products having Bio-Gro-certified organic status.

“We basically supply most things required on-farm other than fencing,” says Aakland Chemicals managing director Steve Glassey. What sets the company apart, though, he says, is that it’s one of the only chemical companies selling directly from the factory to the farm gate. They have an extensive network of sales agents throughout the country. Their reps bring years of on-the-ground experience and comprehensive product knowledge.

By offering product delivery and on-farm staff training, it aims to support farmers with tailored solutions and advice for their hygiene and feed needs, delivered directly to their door. Steve believes that intense farmer contact is invaluable to the company’s success. It’s about providing the right product at the right price and ensuring customers are happy. Receiving that client feedback is essential. It’s an area where there is still a lot of innovation to be had, as technology is constantly changing. “We work closely with farmers to take the stress out of their job. Having our own industrial chemist and full laboratory allows us to work closely with our clients in the development of any special requirements.”

Another hallmark of Aakland Chemicals was its recycling service for all of its containers. End of life product go to Future Post. This New Zealand-based company makes fence posts from domestic and commercial mixed-grade plastics that would otherwise be destined for landfill. “In the current climate, it was important to us as a company that we were doing what was environmentally correct as well as helping with compliance. We aim to reuse, recycle, and reduce waste by 100 per cent.

Future Post is a great example of the Kiwi can-do attitude. We like to support a New Zealand organisation, and it is important for us to see where they were going; otherwise, our problem is becoming someone else’s problem.”

Since joining Ruralco as a Card Merchant in 2014, Aakland Chemicals’ customer base has grown considerably. In addition to its already great value for money, Ruralco Cardholders receive exclusive discounts, including bulk discounts and percentage discounts of up to 12 per cent on certain products. “At the time, it (joining Ruralco) made sense. We’re a family business, and, like Ruralco, we share many of the same ethics and values. Dairying was growing. It came about so farmers could conveniently put it all through on one bill. It’s definitely had a mutual benefit,” says Steve. “We have grown the base and had good growth throughout Mid Canterbury and further afield. Our turnover is about five or six times what it was since we started.”

Steve says the company is proud to support Ruralco’s annual Instore Days. It is always an excellent opportunity for them to catch up with clients, both new and old. Being part of it is one of the year’s highlights.