Decline in Britain’s Dairy Sector Slows in 2024, AHDB Reports
Source: DairyNews.today
The number of dairy producers in Britain stood at an estimated 7,200 as of October 2024, according to data from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), reflecting a modest decline of just 30 producers since April.
The latest figures suggest that the sector's long-standing decline may be stabilizing. In comparison, October 2023 saw a more pronounced loss of 300 producers, or about 4% of the total.
AHDB attributed the bulk of last year’s exits to challenging winter conditions, with pressure on margins and strong cull cow prices pushing smaller producers out of the market.
“Better milk prices over the summer appear to have stemmed the flow of producers leaving the industry, at least for now,” said Annabel Twinberrow, an AHDB analyst.
Signs of Stabilization
The data points to potential stabilization within Britain’s dairy sector as improved market conditions have provided some relief. Milk prices have risen since April, encouraging a slight increase in milk production that AHDB expects to persist throughout the season.
The trend towards fewer but larger dairy farms also continues. The average milk production per farm has risen to 1.7 million litres per year, underscoring the industry's shift toward consolidation and higher efficiency.
While challenges remain, the recent uptick in market conditions offers a cautiously optimistic outlook for British dairy farmers. Industry analysts will watch closely to see if the sector’s modest recovery can translate into long-term stability.
AHDB attributed the bulk of last year’s exits to challenging winter conditions, with pressure on margins and strong cull cow prices pushing smaller producers out of the market.
“Better milk prices over the summer appear to have stemmed the flow of producers leaving the industry, at least for now,” said Annabel Twinberrow, an AHDB analyst.
Signs of Stabilization
The data points to potential stabilization within Britain’s dairy sector as improved market conditions have provided some relief. Milk prices have risen since April, encouraging a slight increase in milk production that AHDB expects to persist throughout the season.
The trend towards fewer but larger dairy farms also continues. The average milk production per farm has risen to 1.7 million litres per year, underscoring the industry's shift toward consolidation and higher efficiency.
While challenges remain, the recent uptick in market conditions offers a cautiously optimistic outlook for British dairy farmers. Industry analysts will watch closely to see if the sector’s modest recovery can translate into long-term stability.
