SDOP was founded in 1998 with one of its primary aims being to meet the increasing demand for UK grown organic produce by sharing resources and knowledge between farmers.

The Co-op supplies Riverford Organic Vegetables who act as the marketing agent and sell their products through their award winning box scheme and to other market sectors.

The Co-op comprises 13 farmers in the South Devon region, co-ordinated by administrative staff based at Buckfastleigh.

The business operates on a "not for profit basis" and is incorporated as a "Friendly Society" following model M rules.

Our members farm over 850 acres of organic vegetables each year and the warm rich soils of the region coupled with the expertise and passion of the farmers and SDOP teams ensure delicious produce. 

  

Company history

It began as a simple idea - to produce local organic food in South Devon that local people would want to buy. But however humble its early aspirations, Riverford Organic Vegetables has grown to become one of the UK’s most successful organic box schemes, delivering quality organic produce to the doors of enthusiastic customers right across the south of the country.
Behind the business’ success is the work of a 15-strong co-operative of family-run farms. After converting to organic status in 1987, Riverford’s business soon flourished. But as the market grew it became clear that more produce, and more organic land to grow it on, was needed. The solution to the problem was literally on their doorstep. Guy Watson arranged meetings in farm kitchens and pubs with would-be growers from the surrounding area interested in getting involved in the box scheme’s intoxicating growth.
The idea for the South Devon Organic Producer’s co-operative (SDOP) was born. The new enterprise was formed and the co-operative began life with nine founder members, including Riverford.
The co-operative’s members work together to improve efficiency, making the most of the area’s local resources. By planning the cropping together and sharing information they are able to grow 85 different varieties of vegetables, keeping the boxes interesting throughout the year.
As Riverford’s dynamic business becomes increasingly popular with households across the country, so does their demand for more acres of quality organic produce.

 

SDOP provides it's members with 5 key services

 

The opportunity to participate in the  programme to supply vegetables to Riverford. The farmers have the advantage of knowing they have a guaranteed market for their crops before  planting.Riverford and SDOP provide technical horticultural advice to ensure top quality crops and yields.

SDOP offer a "pool" of trained supervisors and labour to ensure that members have sufficient labour to cope with busy periods of planting, weeding or harvesting.SDOP also employ seasonal labour recruited both from the Devon area and from abroad and have a Gangmasters License.

SDOP own a wide range of tractors, weeders, planters and harvesters that are hired out to members together with several thousand special wooden bins for collection and storage.

SDOP contract to local companies and members for the provision of temperature controlled storage

SDOP organise regular members and tyechnical meetings to ensure the sharing of best practice and advice