Small team, big impact: Inside Finley’s simple approach to supporting growers
When we caught up with Branch Manager Stacey Doolan, she shared her pride in a team delivering strong service in a region of opportunity and challenge. Irrigation availability influences the planning, inputs and profitability of seasonal crops such as cotton, rice, maize and soybeans, cereals and canola. In recent seasons, some crops originally destined for harvest have instead been cut for hay. Stacey says that while these conditions create pressure, they also deepen connection.
“Sometimes we are the only people growers might see in a while. We spend a lot of time talking to them because we might be their only point of contact. We pick up when they are not travelling well. I get a lot of late night phone calls. They trust us.”
That trust is reinforced by how the team works together. Agronomists help with deliveries. The storeman checks in on growers when he drops product off. The merchandise manager stays close to agronomy trends and product movement. Daily conversations about specials, product direction and seasonal needs ensure growers receive timely advice and practical support.
Community connection remains a defining feature of the branch. The team is actively involved in local sport, schools and events, and the Finley Passionate Community Participants (PCP) recently received a 2024 Nutrien Community Grant for new equipment. Stacey says local organisations are always encouraged to apply because supporting the community goes hand in hand with supporting growers.
There is also a growing interest in tissue testing and improved nutrition programs. These trends have been shaped by shared learnings across the network and insights Stacey gathered during a recent branch manager study tour to the United States, including new approaches to crop nutrition and a stronger focus on Loveland products.
The branch is also exploring further farm trial work, including alternative nutrition options, pulse opportunities. These decisions are strengthened by close collaboration between merchandise and agronomy teams on forecasting, supplier planning and customer needs.
Looking ahead, the focus for the team at Finley remains clear – maintain close contact with growers, strengthen the branch's full service offering and continue to support the community.
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