They do things a bit differently at Vanguard Co-op – that is, the way they used to be done, and the way many people still appreciate.
“We know most of our customers by name,” says Duane Johnston, a fuel truck driver at the Co-op in Vanguard, SK. “A lot of people come and thank us for the service we provide. It makes you want to work even harder.”
An agricultural community about 70 kilometres southeast of Swift Current, Vanguard isn’t especially close to major centres. As a result, the area’s farmers and ranchers – and the town, generally – rely on their Co-op to provide a range of important products and services.
“It’s a long way to go for other services, and as we’re a farming community, we are really needed here,” Duane Johnston says.
Vanguard Co-op’s store at 1 Railway Ave sells farming supplies such as oils, greases, augers and fence posts, and its fuel service is well-known for its same-day deliveries. Duane Johnston says the efficiency is down to familiarity. Customers can speak with him directly instead of going through a dispatcher. Duane Johnston then tells them when he can be on their yard.
The Co-op also performs automotive work in their shop. Staff will do a inspection of a vehicle and recommend the work that needs to be done to extend its life. They also have a wide variety of tires on hand for customers to choose from.
Duane Johnston adds that the Co-op’s history in the community means it’s well-positioned to stock products that the region’s customers need. The personal touch, like remembering your name, is what makes it unique to Vanguard.
Vanguard Co-op, open Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., can be reached by calling (306) 582-2030. Further information about their products and services can be found on their website.