United Oilseeds maintains a profit despite smaller crop
© Tim Scrivener Grower-owned co-operative United Oilseeds reported a pre-tax profit of £1.2m in the financial year ending June 2025.
This was down from levels a year earlier of £1.8m. However, this had been anticipated by the co-operative given the UK cropping area was at its lowest level in 40 years.
Turnover declined from £172m to £97.6m. Meanwhile, net worth increased to £17.5m.
See also: Oilseeds markets rebound back above £400/t
James Warner, managing director at United Oilseeds, said: “Given the challenging backdrop for oilseed rape and the wider arable markets during the marketing year in question, this is a very solid performance.
“Once again, the team have delivered exceptionally well, demonstrating resilience and focus in what has been a difficult trading environment.
“These results highlight our ability to adapt to shifting market conditions while continuing to deliver value for our members, while building a platform for sustainable growth.”
Total tonnage
Total commodity tonnage traded fell by 18% to 310,000t, compared with 378,000t the previous year.
Oilseeds remain the core of the business, although 25% of the volume now comprises other crops such as peas, beans, linseed, rye, and oats.
United Oilseeds also continues to trial sunflowers in a bid to find varieties suitable for the UK climate and market.
The co-operative’s workforce reduced by 10% during the past year due to natural attrition, but as the market dynamics improve it is looking to rebuild numbers.
Mr Warner added: “We continue to drive efficiencies across the business and harness our strong data capabilities to inform decision-making across a range of activities that strengthen our position and enable us to continue providing the best possible service to our members.”
A profit share is once again due to be distributed to its farmer members, with the final amount set to be decided at an upcoming board meeting.