United Grain Growers

UnitedGrainGrowers

United Grain Growers Limited (UGG) was a Canadian grain farmers' cooperative that focused on the marketing and handling of grain, oilseeds, and other agricultural products. Founded in 1906, UGG played a significant role in the development of the grain industry in Canada, particularly in the Prairie Provinces, which include Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. The cooperative was instrumental in advocating for farmers' rights and in the establishment of fair grain marketing practices. Over the years, UGG expanded its operations to include grain handling facilities, elevators, and a variety of services aimed at supporting the agricultural sector.

History

The origins of United Grain Growers can be traced back to the early 20th century, when grain farmers in the Prairie Provinces faced numerous challenges, including unfair grain prices and exploitative practices by grain companies. In response, farmers began organizing themselves into cooperatives to gain greater control over the marketing of their grain. UGG was established in 1906, emerging from the merger of the Grain Growers' Grain Company (GGGC) and the Alberta Farmers' Cooperative Elevator Company.

Throughout its history, UGG was at the forefront of innovation in the grain industry. It was among the first to introduce farmer-owned grain elevators in Canada, significantly improving the efficiency of grain storage and distribution. UGG also played a key role in the establishment of the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB), a government entity that managed the marketing of wheat and barley in Canada for many years.

In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, UGG continued to evolve, responding to changes in the agricultural sector and the global economy. This included diversifying its services beyond grain marketing to include agronomy services, crop inputs, and financial services tailored to the needs of farmers.

Merger and Legacy

In 2001, United Grain Growers merged with Agricore to form Agricore United, creating one of Canada's largest grain marketing and handling companies. The merger was a response to the increasing globalization of the agricultural sector and the need for larger, more competitive entities. Agricore United was later acquired by the Manitoba Co-operative Association in 2007, which eventually became part of Viterra Inc., further consolidating the grain industry in Canada.

The legacy of United Grain Growers is significant. It played a pivotal role in shaping the grain industry in Canada, advocating for farmers' rights, and introducing innovations that improved grain marketing and handling. UGG's history reflects the broader story of agriculture in the Prairie Provinces and the challenges and opportunities faced by farmers in the 20th century.

See Also

• Agriculture in Canada
• Cooperative
• Grain trade
• History of agriculture in the Prairie Provinces