about farmers co-operative
Mission, Vision & Values
Mission:
Farmers Co-Operative Grain Company of Kinde is a member-owned agricultural cooperative that provides quality products, services, marketing, and technical expertise for farm commodities. Implementing sound business practices allows for the future growth of our co-operative and the enhancement of our patrons' profitability in the Thumb of Michigan.
Vision:
To be the best; providing solutions to achieve employee and customer success
Core Values:
Integrity – We keep our word, deliver on our commitments, and take responsibility to make things right when we fall short.
Safety – We foster a culture of care and safety for our employees, customers, and the communities we serve.
Customers – We strive to anticipate and meet the evolving needs of our customers with dedication and excellence.
Employees – We invest in the growth, development, and success of our team members.
Communities – We are devoted to creating a positive impact in the communities where we live and work.
Success – We respect our heritage while focusing on sustainable, long-term financial success.
Community equals Commitment
Being a good neighbor means committing to the growth and well-being of the communities where our employees and customers live. We view this as an investment in our shared future. Farmers Co-Operative Grain Company of Kinde proudly supports local schools, community service organizations, food pantries, local governments, and various foundations that provide essential resources to fulfill their missions.
Farmers Cooperative History
Farmers Co-Operative Grain Company of Kinde, is located in Kinde, Michigan Starting in 1914 making it the oldest grain co-operative in Michigan. It was established to serve the agricultural community in Michigan’s Thumb region and has remained member-owned for over a century. Farmers Co-Operative started as a small grain elevator and has grown significantly, now operating on an 18-acre site with three grain dryers and 2.8 million bushels of storage capacity.
Throughout its history, the Farmers Co-Operative has adapted to changes in farming technology and crop yields. Originally serving farmers with two-row planters, it now supports operations using 24- to 48-row planters. The facility has expanded with modern metal silos and upgraded grain pits to handle increased production. Today, Farmers Co-Operative offers a wide range of services, including crop protection products, custom fertilizer, seed, lumber, fuel and oil, hardware, livestock nutrition, and petroleum services.
The Farmers Co-Operative also has a strong focus on community and innovation. It shares 40% of profits with patrons and reinvests the rest into facility upgrades. Beyond financial returns, Farmers Co-Op actively gives back through local sponsorships, agricultural education programs, and community events that strengthen ties between farmers and residents. Over the years, it has partnered with companies like Kalmbach for high-quality livestock feed and developed an agronomy department to provide precision technology and tailored solutions for farmers.
Kinde itself has deep agricultural roots, historically known as the “Bean Capital of the World” due to its production of navy beans, which have been a Michigan staple for over a century.
