our history

farming since 1896

The Co-operative has a long heritage in agriculture, and the formation of The Co-operative Farms goes back over 100 years. 

Although methods of farming have changed, and technology has progressed beyond recognition, the same principles of good land management, good people management and care for the environment, still apply today.

To find out more about why we have a farming business, and how we came to be the largest farmer in the UK, follow the links to the left to read our story - each represents a different era of farming.

For more information on the history of farming in general, see the timeline of farming at the UK Agriculture website.