Since we launched as The Scoop, it has been a goal to be aligned with the good-natured, fun-loving spirit found across ag retail. As such, we don’t often shy away from puns such as the one above. It’s always an honor to feature the Agricultural Retailers Association Retailer of the Year in The Scoop. The awardees show how they display excellence in their everyday work, and they have built successful businesses to serve farmers. This year’s winner, Marion Ag Service Inc., has adopted four core values, which resonate in all corners of the business. Here are some takeaways from interviews with Marion Ag owners, employees and farmer-customers. Knowledgeable One grower-customer, Gayle Goschie, shared her family has grown hops for 118 years. Today, the farm, which is located in Silverton, Oregon, leans on the expertise provided by Marion Ag’s advisers for agronomic recommendations and to help stay sharp in all aspects of the farm’s production. Integrity Multiple sales team members harken this mantra instilled in them by the founder, Bob Hockett: Do what’s right by the customer. They say this applies to their work ethic, their pricing and how they can be the best in their roles. Reliability Jake Kanagy, a farmer in Hubbard, Oregon, says the first two phone calls made each morning are often to Marion Ag Service employees. Kanagy says it could be a joke or business, but the relationships built between retailer and farmer are strong, multi-faceted and rooted in trust. Teamwork Across four locations and the geography that the business serves, the 120+ employees are supported in their work—from knowing the importance of applying safety practices all the way to seeing how the company supports its communities. Click here to watch the award video and learn more. Margy Eckelkamp | 