South West Terminal (SWT) is a farmer-owned, independent grain and crop inputs company that provides a comprehensive range of services, including grain marketing, crop nutrients, crop protection, and agronomy solutions, all designed to help producers maximize their operations.
They rallied local farmers and businesspeople to invest in the project, leading to the incorporation of SWT in 1994. The company secured the Antelope Terminal rail siding and officially opened its doors in 1997, becoming the first farmer-owned terminal in southwest Saskatchewan.
Recognizing the increasing demand for crop protection and fertilizer services, the company expanded into the crop inputs sector in 2000. Their first crop inputs location was built at the Gull Lake site, where the terminal was located.
From there, SWT continued to grow, expanding its crop input services to Hazenmore in 2003, Cabri in 2009, Shaunavon in 2011, Wymark in 2016, Kyle in 2019 and Whitla, AB in 2024. These expansions allowed SWT to better serve the needs of local farmers.
Built on the vision of its founders, SWT remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of producers in southwestern Saskatchewan. Today, SWT has 540 shareholders, including local farmers, business owners, Cargill and individuals, making it one of the last remaining farmer-owned grain and crop input companies in Western Canada. Notably, one of the four key founders, Rhett Allison, continues to serve as an active director on the SWT board. The company was built on a foundation of local investment and farmer ownership, which remains a core strength to this day.
Raised on a mixed farm near Success, SK, Reich gained early experience in agriculture by working for a local farmer who specialized in cleaning and trading pulse crops. He spent a couple of years there out of high school before receiving an opportunity to join the team at SWT.
Reich’s decision to work in grain cleaning proved pivotal. He had initially applied to work at the elevator while it was still under construction but wasn’t selected. However, when the original grain cleaning hire fell through, Reich received a last-minute call to step in. At the time, inland grain terminals and high-throughput grain cleaners were rare, making his past experience in grain cleaning a valuable asset.
Monty Reich's journey at SWT reflects his dedication to both personal growth and the company’s success. While working full-time at SWT, Reich completed his business certificate remotely and later earned an MBA from Athabasca University.
"I’ve had great people to work for and with, and a strong board of directors here. When I saw the potential for my future with this company, I made the decision to pursue my education," Reich recalls.
His commitment to continuous learning, paired with his determination to improve both personally and professionally, highlights the opportunities for growth within the SWT framework. Starting shortly after high school and working his way up to CEO, Reich's story exemplifies the value of lifelong learning, not just for personal development but for the betterment of the company as well.
"We like being locally owned," says Reich. "We have a close connection to our farmers, and we want to showcase where their grain goes and how it impacts the food supply chain."
This commitment extends beyond business operations, as SWT actively works to highlight the contributions of Canadian farmers to global food security. Reich emphasizes the importance of linking growers to end consumers, even when most Canadian grain is exported overseas.
"It's tough to showcase a farmer in Hazenmore, SK, to someone in Morocco, but we believe it's important to ensure that end consumers understand where their food originates. We want to shine a spotlight on our farmers and share the great work they’re doing."
This commitment to highlighting the efforts of local farmers is rooted in a broader vision of sustainable food production. SWT works to demonstrate that Canadian farmers are leaders in sustainable practices, working tirelessly to protect the land and invest in soil health for future generations.
"There are a lot of misconceptions about agriculture and its environmental impact," Reich notes. "But Canadian farmers are naturally sustainable. They have to do things right to stay in business. They invest heavily in their soil and make decisions in the best interest of the land, knowing they have to grow a crop again next year. If they were to treat the soil poorly, it would, in turn, treat them poorly in the future. We want to help spotlight all the good things they do."
For SWT, being farmer-owned is more than just a business structure; it’s a commitment to supporting growers and showcasing the essential role of Canadian farmers in feeding the world.
"Our independence is important," says Reich. "Having farmers as owners makes us different. We believe in treating people well and being actively involved in our communities."
SWT recognizes the challenges facing small prairie towns, where populations have declined as people move to larger cities for new opportunities. To help strengthen these towns, SWT supports projects and organizations that bring people together and bond communities.
"For example, in Gull Lake, we partnered with the Lyceum Theatre to refurbish and refresh the space because it brings the community together," Reich explains. "We’re proud to be part of these communities, and giving back is both rewarding and fulfilling for our team."
Beyond supporting local rinks, community centers, sports teams, and clubs, SWT is also committed to supporting healthcare initiatives that directly impact rural residents. One of their key partnerships is with STARS, a critical care air ambulance service that provides lifesaving transport to patients in remote areas.
"We believe access to emergency care is essential for all our rural communities, which is why we support STARS every year," says Reich.
SWT also contributes to The Dr. Noble Irwin Regional Healthcare Foundation, which raises funds to enhance healthcare quality and accessibility for residents in Southwest Saskatchewan. Through these efforts, SWT remains deeply committed to strengthening the communities where its owners and customers live and work.
"I'm incredibly fortunate to be where I am today because of the people around me," says Reich. "If there's one thing I’ve learned over my 28 years here, it’s that success depends on having good people—and SWT has been extremely fortunate in that regard."
While the past few years have brought challenges, including drought and market uncertainties, Reich credits SWT’s resilience to its team.
"I mean it's been challenging the last few years, but I tell you we're a very resilient company because we have great people. I am extremely proud of the team we have. From our newest employees to those who have been here for over 25 years, they make us who we are. The secret to success is finding great people, appreciating them, and empowering them as much as possible."
Reich believes that when employees are trusted to make decisions and feel truly invested in their work, the entire company benefits.
"At the end of the day, it's our people who drive the business and make the difference for our customers. That’s why listening to them, working with them, and focusing on their success is so important. "
"If you look at Southwest Saskatchewan, it’s often a forgotten part of the province. Everyone knows it’s hot, dry, and almost desert-like," says Reich. "But in many ways, we’re fortunate to be here. This region has given us the opportunity to expand and serve areas that were previously underserved."
SWT’s founders laid a strong foundation for long-term success, and the company has built upon that vision by focusing on excellence in its core operations. Initially, that meant running an efficient and reliable grain terminal. As they expanded into crop inputs, the priority was mastering that business before moving into new communities.
"We went to smaller communities where the bigger players had pulled out, deciding the opportunity was too small. We flipped that script and chose to invest in these communities, helping to keep them thriving," Reich explains. "Our growth strategy has always been based on first-hand farming knowledge, understanding what it’s like to operate in adverse conditions."
SWT’s commitment to improving its operations within its territory has allowed the company to weather challenges, including nearly seven years of drought.
"We’re focused on getting better at what we do in our region, and that’s what keeps us strong."
"There’s so much more data being gathered on farms today," says Reich. "Over the next few years, we’ll see even greater advancements as we learn how to apply all this information effectively."
One area of research that particularly interests Reich is the ongoing study of seeding timing.
"For the longest time, farmers were told to wait until the soil reached 10°C before seeding. But new research suggests that earlier seeding can help capture valuable moisture that might be missed if you wait for the soil to warm up," Reich explains. "Advancements in seed treatments are helping crops withstand cooler temperatures, and ongoing trials in this area could be incredibly beneficial for our region."
Beyond agronomy, this also provides opportunities in shifting harvest timelines.
"Harvesting earlier in August presents logistical advantages. Moving grain in August rather than in the peak months of September through November can provide an edge in the market."
By focusing on research and adapting to new agronomic insights, SWT continues to help farmers maximize efficiency in an ever-changing landscape.
"We need to explore how far we can push yields in our region by applying the right nutrients at the right rate, in the right place, at the right time," says Reich. "After seven years of drought and reduced yields, finding sustainable ways to boost production has become essential."
The focus on soil health has led to increased soil sampling and data collection, which allows farmers to make more informed decisions.
"More people now understand the value of the 4R approach. There's more soil sampling happening, better data collection, and ultimately, we're becoming more efficient as an industry," Reich adds. "We need to keep communicating the positive impact of these advancements because Western Canada’s farmers are among the best in the world when it comes to sustainability."
Building strong relationships is also a core value at SWT. From suppliers and manufacturers to end users, these partnerships help SWT stay ahead of industry trends.
"We want to be proactive rather than reactive, and that means working closely with our trusted partners to understand what's coming next," Reich emphasizes. “Our team is very open to understanding, learning, and adapting, while keeping the focus on what's the right solution for the right customer.”
To further support these efforts, SWT operates two research trial locations, one at its Antelope site and another at Wymark. These trials provide insights into local product and practice performance, from seed treatments and nutrient application to biological testing. By investing in research and industry collaboration, SWT is ensuring long-term success for farmers in Southwest Saskatchewan.
"It’s a great story that began with just a few farmers gathered around a coffee table. While not all of them are here today, I know they would be incredibly proud of what we've built,” shared Reich. “I often think of Ken Logan, who was the driving force among the founding group. I have no doubt he would be proud of how the business has grown. I'm proud of the people we employ, the communities we support, and the facilities we’ve built, expanded, and invested in over the years.”
What started as a single inland grain terminal has evolved into a multi-faceted agricultural business with a broad service area and a strong commitment to meeting farmers’ needs.
Visions of the future
In the 1990s, Western Canada’s grain handling system underwent a significant transformation. Traditional wooden elevators were shutting down, while high-throughput concrete elevator systems were being built along main railway lines to improve the efficiency of the grain handling system. A group of four local farmers gathered around a coffee table with a vision: to build an inland grain terminal in the Gull Lake area. They believed this project would help meet the needs of a large region in southwestern Saskatchewan that was currently underserved.They rallied local farmers and businesspeople to invest in the project, leading to the incorporation of SWT in 1994. The company secured the Antelope Terminal rail siding and officially opened its doors in 1997, becoming the first farmer-owned terminal in southwest Saskatchewan.
Recognizing the increasing demand for crop protection and fertilizer services, the company expanded into the crop inputs sector in 2000. Their first crop inputs location was built at the Gull Lake site, where the terminal was located.
From there, SWT continued to grow, expanding its crop input services to Hazenmore in 2003, Cabri in 2009, Shaunavon in 2011, Wymark in 2016, Kyle in 2019 and Whitla, AB in 2024. These expansions allowed SWT to better serve the needs of local farmers.
Built on the vision of its founders, SWT remains dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of producers in southwestern Saskatchewan. Today, SWT has 540 shareholders, including local farmers, business owners, Cargill and individuals, making it one of the last remaining farmer-owned grain and crop input companies in Western Canada. Notably, one of the four key founders, Rhett Allison, continues to serve as an active director on the SWT board. The company was built on a foundation of local investment and farmer ownership, which remains a core strength to this day.
A Legacy of Leadership
Monty Reich, CEO of SWT, has been with the company since its early days, joining in February 1997, just a month after SWT officially opened its doors. Reich began his journey at SWT working in the elevator, cleaning grain and loading railcars, a humble start to what would become a distinguished career with the company.Raised on a mixed farm near Success, SK, Reich gained early experience in agriculture by working for a local farmer who specialized in cleaning and trading pulse crops. He spent a couple of years there out of high school before receiving an opportunity to join the team at SWT.
Reich’s decision to work in grain cleaning proved pivotal. He had initially applied to work at the elevator while it was still under construction but wasn’t selected. However, when the original grain cleaning hire fell through, Reich received a last-minute call to step in. At the time, inland grain terminals and high-throughput grain cleaners were rare, making his past experience in grain cleaning a valuable asset.
Monty Reich's journey at SWT reflects his dedication to both personal growth and the company’s success. While working full-time at SWT, Reich completed his business certificate remotely and later earned an MBA from Athabasca University.
"I’ve had great people to work for and with, and a strong board of directors here. When I saw the potential for my future with this company, I made the decision to pursue my education," Reich recalls.
His commitment to continuous learning, paired with his determination to improve both personally and professionally, highlights the opportunities for growth within the SWT framework. Starting shortly after high school and working his way up to CEO, Reich's story exemplifies the value of lifelong learning, not just for personal development but for the betterment of the company as well.
The Farmer-Owned Difference
As a farmer-owned grain and crop input company, SWT stands apart from its large corporate competitors."We like being locally owned," says Reich. "We have a close connection to our farmers, and we want to showcase where their grain goes and how it impacts the food supply chain."
This commitment extends beyond business operations, as SWT actively works to highlight the contributions of Canadian farmers to global food security. Reich emphasizes the importance of linking growers to end consumers, even when most Canadian grain is exported overseas.
"It's tough to showcase a farmer in Hazenmore, SK, to someone in Morocco, but we believe it's important to ensure that end consumers understand where their food originates. We want to shine a spotlight on our farmers and share the great work they’re doing."
This commitment to highlighting the efforts of local farmers is rooted in a broader vision of sustainable food production. SWT works to demonstrate that Canadian farmers are leaders in sustainable practices, working tirelessly to protect the land and invest in soil health for future generations.
"There are a lot of misconceptions about agriculture and its environmental impact," Reich notes. "But Canadian farmers are naturally sustainable. They have to do things right to stay in business. They invest heavily in their soil and make decisions in the best interest of the land, knowing they have to grow a crop again next year. If they were to treat the soil poorly, it would, in turn, treat them poorly in the future. We want to help spotlight all the good things they do."
For SWT, being farmer-owned is more than just a business structure; it’s a commitment to supporting growers and showcasing the essential role of Canadian farmers in feeding the world.
Supporting Rural Communities
Reich believes that having farmers invested in the business fosters a deeper commitment to the communities they serve."Our independence is important," says Reich. "Having farmers as owners makes us different. We believe in treating people well and being actively involved in our communities."
SWT recognizes the challenges facing small prairie towns, where populations have declined as people move to larger cities for new opportunities. To help strengthen these towns, SWT supports projects and organizations that bring people together and bond communities.
"For example, in Gull Lake, we partnered with the Lyceum Theatre to refurbish and refresh the space because it brings the community together," Reich explains. "We’re proud to be part of these communities, and giving back is both rewarding and fulfilling for our team."
Beyond supporting local rinks, community centers, sports teams, and clubs, SWT is also committed to supporting healthcare initiatives that directly impact rural residents. One of their key partnerships is with STARS, a critical care air ambulance service that provides lifesaving transport to patients in remote areas.
"We believe access to emergency care is essential for all our rural communities, which is why we support STARS every year," says Reich.
SWT also contributes to The Dr. Noble Irwin Regional Healthcare Foundation, which raises funds to enhance healthcare quality and accessibility for residents in Southwest Saskatchewan. Through these efforts, SWT remains deeply committed to strengthening the communities where its owners and customers live and work.
The Power of People: The Heart of SWT
For Monty Reich, one of the most valuable business lessons is simple yet profound: People are important."I'm incredibly fortunate to be where I am today because of the people around me," says Reich. "If there's one thing I’ve learned over my 28 years here, it’s that success depends on having good people—and SWT has been extremely fortunate in that regard."
While the past few years have brought challenges, including drought and market uncertainties, Reich credits SWT’s resilience to its team.
"I mean it's been challenging the last few years, but I tell you we're a very resilient company because we have great people. I am extremely proud of the team we have. From our newest employees to those who have been here for over 25 years, they make us who we are. The secret to success is finding great people, appreciating them, and empowering them as much as possible."
Reich believes that when employees are trusted to make decisions and feel truly invested in their work, the entire company benefits.
"At the end of the day, it's our people who drive the business and make the difference for our customers. That’s why listening to them, working with them, and focusing on their success is so important. "
Doing What You Do Well
With a long history of operation, staying relevant is always top of mind for the SWT team."If you look at Southwest Saskatchewan, it’s often a forgotten part of the province. Everyone knows it’s hot, dry, and almost desert-like," says Reich. "But in many ways, we’re fortunate to be here. This region has given us the opportunity to expand and serve areas that were previously underserved."
SWT’s founders laid a strong foundation for long-term success, and the company has built upon that vision by focusing on excellence in its core operations. Initially, that meant running an efficient and reliable grain terminal. As they expanded into crop inputs, the priority was mastering that business before moving into new communities.
"We went to smaller communities where the bigger players had pulled out, deciding the opportunity was too small. We flipped that script and chose to invest in these communities, helping to keep them thriving," Reich explains. "Our growth strategy has always been based on first-hand farming knowledge, understanding what it’s like to operate in adverse conditions."
SWT’s commitment to improving its operations within its territory has allowed the company to weather challenges, including nearly seven years of drought.
"We’re focused on getting better at what we do in our region, and that’s what keeps us strong."
Harnessing innovation
Agriculture is evolving rapidly, with more data available than ever before. Farmers are collecting vast amounts of information to optimize equipment use, soil health, and crop input applications. As the industry advances, there is an increasing focus on how best to apply this data for improved efficiency and productivity."There’s so much more data being gathered on farms today," says Reich. "Over the next few years, we’ll see even greater advancements as we learn how to apply all this information effectively."
One area of research that particularly interests Reich is the ongoing study of seeding timing.
"For the longest time, farmers were told to wait until the soil reached 10°C before seeding. But new research suggests that earlier seeding can help capture valuable moisture that might be missed if you wait for the soil to warm up," Reich explains. "Advancements in seed treatments are helping crops withstand cooler temperatures, and ongoing trials in this area could be incredibly beneficial for our region."
Beyond agronomy, this also provides opportunities in shifting harvest timelines.
"Harvesting earlier in August presents logistical advantages. Moving grain in August rather than in the peak months of September through November can provide an edge in the market."
By focusing on research and adapting to new agronomic insights, SWT continues to help farmers maximize efficiency in an ever-changing landscape.
Advancing Soil Health and Industry Collaboration
SWT is committed to sustainable farming practices, particularly through the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Program. Understanding soil health, proper fertilizer placement, and optimizing nutrient use are key priorities in ensuring long-term productivity."We need to explore how far we can push yields in our region by applying the right nutrients at the right rate, in the right place, at the right time," says Reich. "After seven years of drought and reduced yields, finding sustainable ways to boost production has become essential."
The focus on soil health has led to increased soil sampling and data collection, which allows farmers to make more informed decisions.
"More people now understand the value of the 4R approach. There's more soil sampling happening, better data collection, and ultimately, we're becoming more efficient as an industry," Reich adds. "We need to keep communicating the positive impact of these advancements because Western Canada’s farmers are among the best in the world when it comes to sustainability."
Building strong relationships is also a core value at SWT. From suppliers and manufacturers to end users, these partnerships help SWT stay ahead of industry trends.
"We want to be proactive rather than reactive, and that means working closely with our trusted partners to understand what's coming next," Reich emphasizes. “Our team is very open to understanding, learning, and adapting, while keeping the focus on what's the right solution for the right customer.”
To further support these efforts, SWT operates two research trial locations, one at its Antelope site and another at Wymark. These trials provide insights into local product and practice performance, from seed treatments and nutrient application to biological testing. By investing in research and industry collaboration, SWT is ensuring long-term success for farmers in Southwest Saskatchewan.
The People and The Journey
Monty Reich expressed a deep sense of pride in the team that has enabled the growth and success of SWT, reflecting on the company's origins and its journey to where it stands today."It’s a great story that began with just a few farmers gathered around a coffee table. While not all of them are here today, I know they would be incredibly proud of what we've built,” shared Reich. “I often think of Ken Logan, who was the driving force among the founding group. I have no doubt he would be proud of how the business has grown. I'm proud of the people we employ, the communities we support, and the facilities we’ve built, expanded, and invested in over the years.”
What started as a single inland grain terminal has evolved into a multi-faceted agricultural business with a broad service area and a strong commitment to meeting farmers’ needs.
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