4 May 2011

Farmlands Trading Society Limited’s horticultural specialists, Skeltons has strengthened its complimentary technical advisory service with the addition of a second technical advisor to support Northland growers.

Sarah Williamson will be based out of the Farmlands Whangarei and Kamo stores due for completion later in the year, and is now part of the 20-strong Skeltons technical team based around the North Island.

“The Skeltons team of advisors is hugely experienced in the growing industry,” says Ian Gold, Skeltons General Manager. “All of our advisors have had extensive practical experience on a variety of horticultural properties, and most have industry tertiary qualifications. Our pool of knowledge, networks, and access to research and other experts is unrivalled.”

Sarah grew up on a pip and stonefruit orchard in Hawke’s Bay, and went to Massey University to train as a plant pathologist, completing a Bachelor of Applied Science with honours (Plant Science and Horticulture). After a stint overseas, Sarah settled in Northland five years ago.

With over 10 years experience in both advisory roles to growers and horticultural research roles around New Zealand and overseas, Mrs Williamson has recently become the only trained sampler in Northland for Psa testing of kiwifruit vines. “I enjoy helping growers make decisions about the management of their properties, so they can get the best returns,” says Sarah.

Three years ago Farmlands purchased Skeltons, a leading Hawke’s Bay based horticultural advisory and supplies company, with the intention of using the Skeltons model and expertise as a platform to grow its horticulture service into other areas.

The first Skeltons technical advisor for Northland, John Lees, was appointed last year, and Farmlands stores in the region strengthened their range of competitively priced horticulture products.

Farmlands Chief Executive Officer, Peter Ellis says this appointment demonstrated the Cooperative’s increased commitment to helping its horticulture shareholders grow their profitability.

“Results from other regions where we have introduced the Skeltons service have shown us that Farmlands strength in product range pricing, coupled with Skeltons’ proven technical expertise is a winning combination for growers and producers,” says Mr Ellis.

Skeltons’ service is available to all Farmlands commercial horticultural shareholders.

ENDS

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