Highland Grain is an amalgam of two co-operatives, Black Isle Grain Group Ltd, founded in 1977, and Easter Ross Grain Ltd, founded in 1988.  All of these businesses were founded through a desire of the local growers to better themselves and to add value to their products.  Ownership of the business, which remains totally independent after more than 25 years, has always rested with the members, who have invested in their future, through Highland Grain.  These growers have also shown that they are prepared to take responsibility for their product by dealing directly with maltsters and distillers.  Much of the investment has been made in fixed plant and equipment but there has also been considerable investment in establishing, and retaining, markets.

Highland Grain was the first business in the UK to have the ability to supply totally farm-assured bulks to its customers, blazing a trail for others to follow.  The business was also fairly unique, in agricultural terms, when it established its status as an Investor In People in 1998.  Furthermore, quality assurance was extended when the business employed an ISO9000 management system, along with approved status under the Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops.

Notable events over the years have been as follows:-