The NFU wants more customers of milk and dairy products to develop better relations with dairy farmers and commit to sourcing British.
Large food manufacturers, convenience and discount retailers, food service customers and high street food outlets will all be invited to a seminar in May to raise awareness of the current situation within the dairy industry. High profile speakers will also promote successful, best practice examples of collaboration in the dairy supply chain.
NFU chief dairy adviser Hayley Campbell-Gibbons said: ’There are many customers of British dairy products outside the major retailers, yet we don’t spend enough time focusing on this so-called ’middle market’ and engaging with the food service sector and other buyers about the huge challenges facing the dairy industry.
’In holding this event we want to build closer relationships with these important customers, instil a greater sense of responsibility towards British dairy farmers, and encourage much greater commitment to sourcing British, Red Tractor assured dairy products.
’While there have been some small improvements in farmgate prices for milk recently, our latest Cost of Production report reveals that British dairy farmers are, on average, losing more than three pence on every litre of milk they produce. We all have a vested interest in maintaining a productive, profitable and healthy dairy industry so we can continue to provide consumers with the quality British dairy products they enjoy. This unique event will show that everyone in the supply chain can play their part.’
