UFA thanks our membership with a Patronage announcement of $32.5 million for their 2024 purchases! Now, more than ever, we pride ourselves on being a Canadian-owned and operated organization. This marks the eighth consecutive year of paying patronage, and the milestone coincides with our Co-operative celebrating the second strongest financial results in its history, underscoring our dedication to delivering exceptional value and service for our members.
This year, Patronage will be paid on 2024 purchases in the following ways:
- 6.5 cents per litre on Dieselex® Gold
- 5.5 cents per litre on diesel
- 1 cent per litre on gasoline
- 3% on other purchases made in 2024 (Exclusions on other purchases include: Fuel, select Micro Technologies Feedlot Solutions products, select petroleum products, crop nutrition and leased purchases.)
Minimum purchase(s) of $5,000 combined on all categories to qualify for patronage.
UFA's President and Chief Executive Officer, Fred Thun, expressed these sentiments: "This patronage return is more than just a number; it's a story of our members' loyalty and the collective effort of our entire team. Our financial success allows us to give back reliable and consistent dividends to those who grow our food and are vital to the Canadian economy. We are proud to share $32.5 million with our members and are committed to enhancing the customer experience, delivering lasting value to members and strengthening our community."
Thun also acknowledged the struggles many Canadians are currently facing: "Amid the uncertain political and economic climate, UFA remains a steadfast pillar of support for our members. With inflation, rising living costs, and global trade tensions, our commitment is more vital than ever. Our strong financial performance and growing patronage dividend provide a beacon of stability and trust in these challenging times."
In addition to announcing Patronage, UFA reinforced its commitment to providing member value by announcing a Patronage Promise to be paid in 2026 for goods purchased in 2025.
Patronage will be paid on 2025 purchases in the following ways:
- 6 cents per litre on Dieselex® Gold
- 5 cents per litre on diesel
- 1 cent per litre on gasoline
- $20 per bag on canola seed (Bag or bag equivalent)
- 3% on other purchases made in 2025 (Exclusions on other purchases include: Fuel, Canola seed, select Micro Technologies Feedlot Solutions products, select petroleum products, crop nutrition and leased purchases.)
Minimum purchase(s) of $5,000 combined on all categories to qualify for patronage. Subject to UFA Board approval and ratification by the Assembly.
UFA Board Chair, Kevin Hoppins, shared: "We extend a heartfelt thank you to all our elected officials who bring a wealth of experience and a shared vision for UFA's future. Congratulations to Jim Bettcher, Cindy Bjorklund and Trish Henderson on their re-election to the UFA board of directors for a four-year term. We look forward to their ongoing contributions in steering UFA towards continued success."
Investing in the Future
UFA's commitment to its members extends beyond financial returns. Its co-operative advantage continues to deliver value to its membership now and for generations to come. In 2024, the co-operative made significant investments in communities across Western Canada, including:
- Investing in Canterra Seeds with the purchase of 17% of shares.
- Opening a new Farm & Ranch Supply store and Cardlock in Gasoline Alley, Red Deer, Alberta.
- Expanding petroleum locations in Saskatchewan, including the Regina Global Transportation Hub, Melfort and Moose Jaw Cardlocks.
- Refreshing existing Farm & Ranch Supply stores to enhance the customer experience, including Camrose and Grande Prairie, with plans for Mayerthorpe.
- Launching the UFA Agricultural Community Foundation's Rural Communities Grant Program and supporting 4H Alberta and 4H Saskatchewan.
As UFA looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing member value and community impact. With a focus on providing high-quality products and services, UFA continues building on its trust and reliability legacy. In the coming year, our 116-year-old co-operative will further expand our network, deliver on our Patronage Promise for goods purchased in 2025, and fulfill our commitment of $1 million in funding through the UFA Agricultural Community Foundation.
Stay tuned in the coming months for updates on UFA's Western Canadian expansion and visit here to see all the member benefits at UFA.
