about farmers co-operative

Farmers Co-Operative Grain Company, located in Kinde, Michigan, is the oldest grain co-op in Michigan, founded in 1914. It was established to serve the agricultural community in Michigan’s Thumb region and has remained member-owned for over a century. The co-op 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 co-op 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-Op offers a wide range of services, including crop protection products, custom fertilizer, seed, lumber, fuel and oil, hardware, livestock nutrition, and petroleum services.

The co-op 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.