From a settlement agent to standing alone

For many years GOPP operated through SBS Rural, until that business was acquired by Wesfarmers and later by AWB and AWB Landmark. In 2008 a decision was made that they would no longer act as GOPP’s settlement agent — a significant turning point in the co-operative’s history.

Following extensive research and careful consideration, the Board chose to operate independently from September 2008. GOPP had 30 suppliers at the time and turned over $3.5 million. Taylored Office Solutions — now OPPWA — was appointed settlement agent, and GOPP has grown and strengthened its position in the region ever since.

Today GOPP operates as a buying group on behalf of its members, who are primary producers and small to medium businesses. The co-operative negotiates competitive pricing and valuable savings across a wide range of suppliers throughout Geraldton and the Mid West, and actively promotes those local businesses — members get convenient account facilities and trusted supplier relationships. GOPP has also strengthened its relationships with suppliers who can provide facilities in other parts of the country, so members save wherever they are.

Through a streamlined, centralised system, GOPP manages supplier billing and member invoices. That saves valuable time, reduces administrative workload, and lowers overhead costs for members and partners alike.

Who runs it

The GOPP team have years of experience running co-operatives and are primarily made up of business owners, which is why the people we are looking after stay front and centre. The administration, billing and member support behind the co-operative are run by OPPWA.