FCS Financial’s Phillip Durbin says, “Being able to
visit the Stanton farm gives me a better grasp of their
operation, too. I would have no idea what’s going on if
they just brought me in their tax returns. As unique as
the operation is, it’s very important to come out to the
farm and see what’s going on.”
Staying active in the farm community is critical for
building relationships, Dustin believes. The Stantons
take part in Missouri Farm Bureau activities as well as
their county cattlemen’s association and Young Farmers
and Young Farm Wives. They also like to give back by
working with community civic groups like Rotary Club
and Kiwanis.
“Yes, we are young ag producers,” Dustin says.
“We are in a unique situation. We have to consider the
viewpoint of the farmer, the consumer, grocery store
manager, the restaurant owner. It’s about trying to find
the best way to get your product and message across.”
Nonetheless, both Austin and Dustin are determined
to make their business a success. “We want the operation
to be big enough to sustain our families,” Austin says.
“Agriculture is very generational,” Dustin
concludes. “We hope to grow the business so it can
sustain itself. We like being independent and making
our own decisions. If you succeed it’s because of you. If
you fail, it’s because of you, too.”
(Opposite page top to bottom) In addition to eggs, the Stantons market potatoes at the Columbia Farmer's Market. Judy Stanton feeds
eggs through an automatic washing machine before they are sorted and packaged. Stanton Brothers offers eggs in whole and half dozen.
(Below) Phillip Durbin (l) with Austin, Judy, Andrew and Dustin Stanton.