Estate Dairy's Rise from £5000 to a £26 Million Dairy Business

Founded in 2016 by Shaun and Rebecca Young, Estate Dairy has grown into a £26 million-a-year business. Initially launched with a £5000 investment and car sale, the company focused on supplying coffee shops with high-quality milk. Over time, it gained traction through word-of-mouth within the specialty coffee community, without relying on paid marketing. Early on, Estate Dairy secured contracts with London chains like Notes and prestigious office group WeWork, leading to opportunities with Michelin-starred restaurants and hotels such as The Ritz.

The company expanded its product range to include cultured butter and yoghurt, and in 2019, attempted a chocolate milk product. A production mishap occurred, leading to a learning experience about the complexities of scaling dairy products. In 2024, Estate Dairy entered the retail market, partnering with Ocado and Marks & Spencer to stock its milk in glass bottles, followed by Sainsbury’s. The brand's milk became the most expensive option on shelves, yet sales remained strong, prompting increased orders from Sainsbury's.

Currently, the Youngs focus on consolidating production in Cheshire, planning to open a new £2.5 million yogurt facility. They hold 80% ownership of the business and prioritize building quality relationships with farmers, chefs, cafés, and retailers.