Swanage Dairy Closure Due to Financial Strain

The Swanage Dairy, originally established in 1987 and once known as Studland Dairy, announced its closure due to insurmountable financial pressures. The dairy, located on Victoria Avenue and run by Derek Tillman and Steve Wood, struggled with a combination of staffing issues, rising food and energy prices, and increased fuel and maintenance costs. These challenges made it difficult to compete, especially as larger wholesalers undercut their prices.

Tillman explained, "There were a number of factors which led to the closing of the dairy, namely, staffing issues, the increase in food and energy prices, the high fuel and maintenance costs of the vans. This together affected our ability to be competitive." He also highlighted difficulties in recruiting staff willing to provide the high level of service their customers expected.

The business managed to weather the impact of COVID-19 but found it hard to survive after an increase in national insurance rates. Ultimately, the dairy has been sold to Trevor Craig of Craig’s Farm Dairy, who plans to continue milk deliveries and transition to using sustainable glass bottles.