Despite significant challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, the ANM Group based at Thainstone has seen significant increased throughputs per head of stock and value during 2020.

The member-owned co-operative in the north-east saw a 4.76% increase in the number of sheep and cattle auctioned by the Group, with the total value up almost 10% on 2019 figures, which in turn resulted in a massive £9.1m ploughed into the local economy.

Headage throughput for cattle sold through the ring increased by more than 2% whilst sheep numbers jumped by almost 12%.

ANM made bold and ambitious moves throughout 2020, becoming the first in the UK to deliver live real time bidding into weekly commercial livestock sales and extended its industry-leading member benefits scheme, including livestock commission rates from as low as 3%.

Grant Rogerson, ANM Group chief executive said: “Our desire to continually innovate and invest in our business has resulted in a year that has seen throughput increase, market values rising and most importantly, we have secured good returns for our members, pumping significant investment into the local economy.

“If 2020 has shown us anything, it’s that our deep-rooted co-operative values pay dividends when we most need them and all of this underlines ANM’s position as a co-operative that supports its members.”

The co-operative has also announced a number of key appointments to its Marts team, led by head of livestock, John Angus.

Scott Chapman joins from Dingwall Auction Mart and brings with him a number of years' experience as store and breeding cattle auctioneer. David Hay, who has extensive experience in the Thainstone auction business, and has worked in the livestock industry throughout his career, moves to the role of operations manager in the livestock division.

In addition, leading auctioneer Stuart Slesser, will work with Colin Slessor, deputy head of livestock, to build on the successes of the cull ewe and prime sheep sales at Thainstone.

Further additions to the team are expected in the coming months, continuing the Group’s investment in front line expertise to support its growing customer base.

John Angus, head of livestock added: “The last 12 months have been challenging to say the least but by investing in our front line team we are meeting these challenges head on and are pleased to report healthy advances in our 2020 throughput figures. The livestock team here at ANM is second to none, mixing youth and experience to further build on strong foundations and ensuring we are well placed to deliver for our members and customers, and as this year has shown, with our ambition and investment in our business, withstand turbulent times.”