More than 200 farmers and agricultural industry representatives attended the recent opening of Ravensdown's new purpose-built store in Balclutha - the first of its kind in the country.
The store, which is on a 8.4ha site in Te Houka Rd, will be operational from December 19. Another store is being built in Mata in Northland.
Farmers would benefit from a wider selection of farm products as the site provided 13 bulk product lines.
The store's integrated lime and fertiliser blending capability would ensure the varied needs of customers were met, ultimately leading to better soil nutrient management, the company said. The use of New Zealand-sourced laminate veneer lumber which was not susceptible to corrosion, would cut maintenance costs at the store.
"A major difference from the previous Balclutha store is that all products are under cover and weather-proofed to maintain quality," South Island stores operations manager Wayne Collingwood said.
Clutha district Mayor and Ravensdown shareholder Hamish Anderson welcomed the investment in the local infrastructure.
"Farming is the central pillar of prosperity for our district and it is great to see Ravensdown investing in this magnificent facility to improve service to local shareholders," Mr Anderson said.
