Coming from a traditional dairy set up, David fulfilled his wish to milk cows in a modern system and grow his business from a young age, through hard work, foresight and the ability to make the most of every opportunity. The sale of family farm Low Carston was used to fund the purchase of Auchinbay, which had more land, scope for growth and importantly a modern dairy unit already in-situ.
Since then David and Gillian have continued to look to the future. With two young sons in tow, Jack and Jamie, succession planning has played an important role in the development of the business and they have worked hard to ensure that a successful operation will be available for both boys should they wish.
In growing the business, having the right advice and financial information to hand meant they were in a good position to buy and sell locally based land when it became available. They were then able to make the most of the right opportunity when it came along being the purchase of Barturk Farm.
“When we were thinking of buying the neighbouring farm of Barturk, I actually discussed the project with Robert Fergusson before I even discussed it with my Dad as I wanted his trusted advice before setting of on the journey.”
David is a big advocate of agricultural benchmarking and has found his involvement in this activity to be of great advantage. William Duncan + Co have helped streamline the Morton’s business, enabling them to take part effectively, analyse the results and take action where appropriate. What’s more, with an up to date financial system and data to hand through Xero, David and Gillian have been well positioned to make the most of available grant and funding to further their diversification ambitions. New for 2020, the family have launched their very own on-farm milk vending machine. Selling both whole and semi-skimmed milk in beautifully branded ‘Morton’s’ glass bottles, customers can also purchase a variety of local produce and home baking. While it is a move into unchartered territory, David and Gillian view this latest ventured as one the whole family will enjoy getting involved with.
