CO OPERATION.

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 368, 8 December 1898, Page 2 (Supplement)

CO OPERATION.

TO THE KDITOR. Sir,—l notice a movement in Waikato to establish co-operative creameries there. 1 have often wondered why cooperation has not been thought of in connection with the sale of farm produce, stock, etc. In the South Island these societies have been most successful, and instead of growers paying % per cent, for selling their produce and fruit, m the South it is done for 1\ per cent, by doiug away with the middleman. Absolute security is also one of the best features of co-operation, and by the farmers combining in this way the highest price obtainable is a certain result. At the conference of fruitgrowers I read that they also are desirous of a change in the manner in which their fruit is disposed of. I would sugeest that they establish a strong society as is now in'succassful operation in the South, and send thenfruit, etc., to it. In this way only will thev secure the best result without risk to themselves. The necessary capital is easily obtained if the farmers and settlers enter into the matter in a right spirit and are determined to make it a success by giving it their united support. Seeds of all kinds can be purchased at a margin over cost and payment received in produce instead of cash. In America these societies have been a blessing to many a struggling farmer, who, instead of borrowing money from some money-lender at usurious interest, can obtain from his society, if he is a shareholder, what he may require at a moderate rate. The farming class have a hard life, and profit on other labour is not easily secured. Why they should support a snail army of middlemen in the cities to eat up the little profit is past my comprehension when the remedy is in their own hands, —I am, etc , Observer. Auckland, 29th November, 189 S.