River Valley Cooperative brought home the 2025 Retailer of the Year Award from the Agricultural Retailers Association Conference & Expo held last week in Salt Lake City, Utah.
River Valley Coop, based in Eldridge with its central office in north Davenport, was presented ARA’s prestigious award on Friday, Dec. 3, during the three-day ARA conference.
“Being recognized as ARA’s Retailer of the Year is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our team’s dedication to our growers, our communities, and our shared future,” said Tim Burress, River Valley’s CEO.
“Every day, our people live out our purpose – to support the success of our members and customers through innovation, stewardship, and trusted relationships,” he added. “This award belongs to every employee and member who contributes to that mission.”
Founded in 1905, River Valley Cooperative has established a lasting reputation built on integrity and innovation. Serving growers across Iowa and Illinois, the cooperative has locations and seasonal operations across Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois.
“Our industry thrives because of retailers like River Valley Cooperative, which balance innovation with stewardship and leadership with service,” Daren Coppock, ARA president and CEO, said in a news release. “River Valley Coop’s commitment to its employees, customers, and communities exemplifies what this award stands for. We’re proud to honor them as this year’s Retailer of the Year.”
Investing in employees
According to River Valley, it continues to deliver exceptional value by investing in employee development and strengthening customer partnerships. The cooperative has operations in Eldridge and Sunbury, Iowa. Many of its facilities are ResponsibleAg certified, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to keeping employees, customers, and communities safe.
The company also is proud of its commitment to community engagement. That includes supporting local organizations and fostering the next generation of ag leaders. Its efforts demonstrate a deep-rooted dedication to rural vitality and industry leadership.
The annual ARA Retailer of the Year Award is sponsored by Bayer Crop Science and The Scoop. It recognizes an ARA member retailer or individual who demonstrates outstanding performance in environmental stewardship, community leadership, customer engagement, and employee relations. Nominees are evaluated by the ARA Executive Committee.
River Valley offers a comprehensive range of agricultural services. It includes crop protection, seed, fertilizer, and precision agriculture solutions. The company has more than 400 employees. The cooperative continues to build on its legacy of innovation, integrity, and service to the agricultural community.
