The largest Bepco agricultural retail installation in Northern Europe – NJC Agritech – is now up and running based at Springfield Farm, Burrelton, between Perth and Dundee.

It has been a challenge during the last nine months for Neil Cameron, who had the job of shoe-horning a converted potato shed into a brand new shop!

Neil took over the business from Doug Scott just last December and knew he had to come up with an innovative idea, as opposed to solely continuing as it was with an agricultural engineering business to be more profitable.

“I had a brainwave of hosting an agriculture discount store. Being in such a central location, it really was a no brainer to install the retail premises,” said Neil, who began the re-make during lockdown. It was just three months in the pipeline – securing the premises in July, with the doors opening in October.

Neil’s sister, Shona Cameron, now undertakes the admin’ and looks after the shop, ensuring someone is always about.

Neil still takes to do with the engineering side and can be called out to any job at any time. The team also run two busy vans for agricultural and plant repairs, which at the moment remains the biggest part of the business.

“But, the shop is an up and coming element, and will bring the community together and hopefully supply them with everything they need,” added Neil.

He mainly gets supplies from industry leader, Bepco, and stocks a variety of products from toy tractors to main parts for machinery.

“We have dealt with them for many years, and they have always been loyal and committed, so we knew they would make a great partner for us,” explained Neil, who also stocks a huge range of RM bearings, which are locally based in Dundee.

Edward Nash, Bepco’s marketing manager, comments: “This was a big project to undertake in a relatively short time frame, but the NJC and Bepco team worked well in ensuring everything was ready right on time.

“This new retail installation has really put NJC on the map and is a big draw for any farmers and rural people in the region to pick up essential parts, accessories and consumables for all things farming-related.

“This store is 2.5 times the size of any other Bepco retail unit in Northern Europe, which has added to the excitement for all those involved. Early indications show that the shop’s wares are in high demand, largely thanks to its prime location and we have received a lot of positive feedback from those in the local area,” added Edward.

The next step for Neil will be getting a new workshop up and running for taking repairs in house, as well as putting a new sales manager on the road to further expand the customer base.

“We have a strong future ahead of us and are only at the beginning of our journey. Ensuring the best quality products and services is paramount to us, and I strive to be a family-run business that truly delivers to its valued customers,” concluded Neil.