First Milk to Cut October Milk Price Amid Market Challenges

First Milk, a UK-based co-operative, will reduce its October milk price by one pence per litre, citing tougher trading and market conditions after a period of stability. This change reflects mounting pressure on returns despite months of steady prices. Effective from 1 October 2025, the price for a standard manufacturing litre, including the member premium, will be 43.85ppl.

"After a period of relative stability, trading and market conditions are now becoming more challenging which is affecting our overall returns, necessitating this reduction to our October milk price," commented Mike Smith, farmer director and vice chairman of First Milk.

This latest cut underscores the difficult balance between market pressures and ensuring sustainable returns for producers. First Milk, which is wholly owned by British dairy farmers, remains committed to supporting its members while navigating increasingly volatile markets.