Farmers and rural businesses are under ever-growing pressure to save time, reduce costs, and ensure business continues uninterrupted, but still need access to specialist advice and technical information from time to time. That’s why AF’s Hannah Stainsby has taken on the new role of e-Commerce Coordinator – to give AF Members access to more products on our online shop ‘AF Online’.
“I’m responsible for managing the products available for you to purchase on AF Online (our e-commerce platform), as well as to get even more of them listed online. After 2 years in your AF Member Services team, I’m enjoying this new challenge”
“If you need a specific product and know exactly what you want, you can order it on AF Online. With as little as 3 clicks you can place an order."
“And if you need something more complicated, or want some specialist advice or technical information, you can still call in and speak with one of our team. We’re giving you the best of both worlds!
“AF Online is very convenient and available 24/7 so you don’t need to wait for the AF office to open before you can order. Late back to the yard after a busy day and need to order more diesel? Not a problem – just log in and order it from your mobile or desktop.
“All the prices you see online are the same as you’d get if you called the office, so the savings are just as good.”
“More of everything. More products, more suppliers, more deals. In the future AF Online ill feature building materials and anything else you might need to run your business, available right from your phone or computer.
“We’ve got a decent selection of products on there already including:
oil, grease & more from Witham Group
workwear from Mr Overalls
outdoor furniture & fencing from Forest Garden
Electronics & mobile phones including Apple iPhones, androids & CAT phones
Stationery & office supplies from Ian Smith Group
Catering & hospitality supplies from Alliance.
"Deals of the Week are now on AF Online too. Read about a deal, click on the link, and order it straight away.
“It’s very convenient. If you know what you want it only takes seconds – search, add the item to your basket, and that’s it. The order processes the same way as if you’d called into the office. If it’s over the weekend, just allow for that. But the actual time spent on your device to order is minimal. No need to enter card details – your order charges to your account as usual. And if you have any questions or encounter a problem with your delivery, the team in the office can sort it.”
“Why not?! If you can’t find what you want, we’re adding products every week. We’ll let you know when new product groups or suppliers are added. I’m in conversation with a multitude of suppliers, and there’s a lot of interest. Think of a product category and chances are we’re already working to get it online.
“I understand that technology can sometimes feel a bit scary, especially if you’re not used to it. I get why you may hesitate.
"If you’re looking to save time and money, I’d recommend giving AF Online a try so you can spend your time and energy on other things."
"See how you find it and let us know if there’s anything you’d like changed or updated – we're open to feedback.”
“If you’ve already requested a login for AF Online, it works the same as any of AF’s online features e.g. myAF.
“If you haven’t got a login already, all you need to do is ask The AF Hub for one.”
Not a Member yet but think AF Online sounds so good that you want to join? Find out how here.
Read about other ways we’re using technology and data to help our farmer Members reduce their input costs.