NFU ‘Monitoring’ Muller’s Acquisition of Yew Tree Dairy as CMA Grants Approval
Source: DairyNews.today
The National Farmers' Union (NFU) has announced it is closely monitoring Muller’s recent acquisition of Yew Tree Dairy, urging the milk processor to ensure transparency with farmers affected by the change.
Muller’s acquisition of Yew Tree Dairy, a family-owned business based in Lancashire, was greenlit by the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in late October. First announced in June, the deal will leverage Yew Tree’s milk powder production capabilities to support Muller’s export growth strategy. Muller has expressed that this acquisition reflects its “commitment to a better dairy future” and enhances its ability to invest further in the UK dairy industry.
The NFU emphasized the importance of clear communication with farmers, highlighting that regular updates are necessary to help producers understand any potential impacts. “We are aware of the Muller takeover of Yew Tree Dairy and its approval by the CMA,” said NFU dairy board chair Paul Tompkins. “It’s encouraging to see Muller’s commitment to the UK dairy sector, which underscores the potential for growth in British dairy, particularly in exports.”
Muller, which plans to engage with Yew Tree’s approximately 450 dairy suppliers, stated that it will maintain existing milk collection processes, contract terms, and payment structures for now. CEO of Muller Milk & Ingredients, Rob Hutchison, said the company will invest in Yew Tree’s milk drying operations, aiming to strengthen its position as a key producer and exporter of British-made powdered milk products.
“For suppliers, this acquisition brings a positive outlook for long-term milk supply,” Hutchison added, underscoring Muller’s intention to build a strong, export-focused supply chain with milk sourced from British farms.
The NFU emphasized the importance of clear communication with farmers, highlighting that regular updates are necessary to help producers understand any potential impacts. “We are aware of the Muller takeover of Yew Tree Dairy and its approval by the CMA,” said NFU dairy board chair Paul Tompkins. “It’s encouraging to see Muller’s commitment to the UK dairy sector, which underscores the potential for growth in British dairy, particularly in exports.”
Muller, which plans to engage with Yew Tree’s approximately 450 dairy suppliers, stated that it will maintain existing milk collection processes, contract terms, and payment structures for now. CEO of Muller Milk & Ingredients, Rob Hutchison, said the company will invest in Yew Tree’s milk drying operations, aiming to strengthen its position as a key producer and exporter of British-made powdered milk products.
“For suppliers, this acquisition brings a positive outlook for long-term milk supply,” Hutchison added, underscoring Muller’s intention to build a strong, export-focused supply chain with milk sourced from British farms.
