The project could see new plans come forward for the Thainstone-based business to explore the concept of creating a new purpose-built auction centre, rural community, events and retail hub fit for the future on its own land at Thainstone.

As part of the vision, the group’s plan sets out an opportunity to build an auctioneering centre, incorporating the most up-to-date livestock handling systems and locking in the very highest standards in animal welfare, sustainable working practices, renewable energy and low carbon processes at its heart.

The board’s vision for the site has been launched online and in the Thainstone Centre concourse, and there will now be an opportunity until the end of 2023 for members and customers of the co-operative, users of the centre, the local community and other stakeholders to contribute their ideas for consideration as part of future plans.

ANM Group chief executive, Grant Rogerson, said: “The Thainstone Centre is the beating heart of the rural economy of north east Scotland. Opened in 1990, it was a pioneering development, a purpose-built auction centre and rural hub for the region.

“With a responsibility to look to the future, and continually leading the field, we want to provide the very best auctioneering experience in the country long into the future. Our vision for a new, all-purpose agri-hub in the north east is an exciting one, although we recognise there are a lot of challenges to face up to in order to get it right. We’re in a strong position and have options – do we invest significantly in the current centre, or explore alternative options on the wider site at Thainstone?

“Our vision will maintain the focus of the auction ring as the best possible place to do business. It will ensure our cost base is competitive, so that we can continue to offer the very best member benefits and trading terms on the market.

“We also understand the significance of the Thainstone site to our local community, and we will aim to ensure that we develop any opportunity to further improve that community link and seize future benefits for the wider area.”

“As we consider our plans, we invite and welcome all contributions. This is an opportunity to influence the future development of Thainstone Centre.”

The vision with contributions and feedback received will be developed into a plan, with a potential detailed proposal to be submitted to the planning authorities in 2025, allowing ANM to operate from an adapted or new Thainstone within the next 10 years.