Organic Herd Announces Milk Price Increase, Reaching 56ppl as Demand for British Organic Dairy Grows
The British farmer-owned cooperative, which has consistently either maintained or raised milk prices since October 2021, sees this move as a demonstration of the UK organic dairy sector's potential to offer a stable and sustainable future for producers. The latest price hike reflects the growing demand for British organic dairy products and the increasing value placed on them.
Martyn Anthony, Organic Herd’s chief executive, emphasized that the cooperative's strategy focuses on creating long-term stability and growth by providing returns that truly reflect the value of high-quality organic food, rather than merely following the fluctuations of conventional commodity prices.
“Our latest increase reflects Organic Herd’s commitment to paying a stable and sustainable milk price to both the current and next generation of dairy farmers,” said Anthony. “We are the only business to have either maintained or improved returns to farmers continuously since October 2021. This approach not only supports ongoing organic farming but also helps farmers grow their businesses, securing sustainable growth in supply.”
The price increase comes during an “exciting period” of recruitment for Organic Herd, with both established organic producers and those in the process of converting to organic production joining the co-op. The cooperative has also welcomed new entrants to dairy farming, reflecting a broader interest in organic production across the UK.
Sara Ogborne, Organic Herd’s director of membership and communication, noted the enthusiasm from farmers across the UK, from Scotland to the South West of England. She highlighted that the new generation of dairy farmers is particularly drawn to the stability and sustainability offered by Organic Herd.
“Today’s milk price is important to them, but they are equally focused on being part of a stable, sustainable supply chain,” Ogborne said. Farmers are increasingly interested in a sector that prioritizes long-term value creation over volatile pricing, which can be detrimental to their businesses.
Ogborne also pointed out the appeal of Organic Herd’s progressive approach to the dairy industry, including the development of its range of branded organic dairy products and its commitment to sustainable farming practices.
