From Independent Strength to National Impact
ICD Group brings together New Zealand’s leading independent agricultural and horticultural merchants, creating a collaborative platform that strengthens our network and connects us with trusted supply‑chain and industry partners.
History
ICD Group was founded in 1989 by a small group of independent merchants — Crawford Ag, Grierson Chemicals, A.B. Annand, Peter Cates, and Wards Horticulture. Each operated a highly technical, service- and stewardship-focused model, and together recognised the opportunity to create a collaborative platform.
ICD was established to enable knowledge sharing, strengthen relationships with preferred crop protection suppliers, and deliver a comprehensive range of services and solutions to farmers and growers. From the outset, there was a strong emphasis on both cropping and pastoral agronomy.
The Group was built on a core set of values that continue to guide the business today: collaboration, trust, leadership, stewardship, and innovation.
Over time, membership has evolved, with early departures replaced by a growing number of new members. While the composition has changed, the founding intent remains unchanged. A significant proportion of today’s members joined between 1996 and 2002, providing a strong and stable core of longstanding relationships.
In 2024, ICD Group was pleased to welcome two new members: Frame Grain & Seed and Hazlett.
In 2025, ICD entered a formal association with AgLink Australia, building connections across the Tasman. This relationship deepened in January 2026, when ICD became a shareholder in AgLink International — a global alliance of independent agricultural retailers spanning multiple continents.
These international partnerships mark an important step forward, connecting ICD and its members to global expertise, insights, and opportunities, and positioning the Group strongly for the future.
What We Do
ICD Group is an alliance of 11 independent agricultural and horticultural merchants, supporting New Zealand’s farmers and growers to produce high-quality, sustainable food and fibre since 1989. Collectively, our members generate more than $260 million in annual revenue and employ 218 people — including 82 agronomists — supporting more than 5,000 farmers and growers throughout New Zealand.
We are focused on enabling our members to deliver exceptional value at farm level. Through strong national alignment with recognised suppliers, ICD facilitates innovation, research and development, and extension, helping bring new technologies and productive solutions to the New Zealand market.
ICD Group provides the platform, scale, and network that enables our members to excel. By fostering collaboration, supplier alignment, and knowledge sharing, we strengthen the capability of independent merchants across the country.
Services
ICD Group is focused on creating value for our members, recognised suppliers, and broader industry stakeholders.
Our key services include:
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Centralised Supply Partnerships
Facilitation and administration of national commercial supply arrangements between members and recognised suppliers, with ICD acting as a centralised contracting and coordination agent on behalf of the membership. -
Supplier Engagement & Reviews
Coordination of annual review and pre-season planning meetings between members and recognised suppliers to support performance, alignment, and continuous improvement. -
Strategic Opportunities
Identification, facilitation, and evaluation of exploratory business opportunities that deliver value to the Group and its members. -
Business Services Support
Facilitation and administration of shared business services for members, including fuel, telecommunications, and fleet solutions. -
Member Collaboration & Knowledge Sharing
Creating opportunities for members to exchange experience and expertise through conferences, workshops, and meetings, alongside engagement with recognised suppliers. -
International Connections
Access to global knowledge, networking, and staff exchange opportunities through ICD Group’s involvement with AgLink International.