First Milk: A Leading Dairy Cooperative in the UK

Company Overview: First Milk is headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland, and operates as a dairy cooperative fully owned by British dairy farmers. The cooperative plays a significant role in the dairy industry, emphasizing sustainable practices and innovation.

Financial Indicators

First Milk has been strategic in adjusting its milk pricing to reflect market conditions and ensure sustainable financial outcomes for its members. Recently, the cooperative increased its milk price by 1.25 pence per litre to 45.35 pence per litre. However, a planned decrease of 0.5 pence per litre for June and a stable price of 44.85 pence per litre in August, including the member premium, indicated their dynamic pricing approach. Due to a demand-supply imbalance, a price reduction for milk in November 2025 by 2 pence per litre, down to 41.85 pence per litre, was also confirmed. The price dropped by 9p over three months to 34.72p for standard milk and 35.85p for manufacturing milk, highlighting ongoing market challenges.

Important Events

First Milk has been proactive in enhancing productivity and sustainability. They initiated annual carbon footprint assessments at Sychpant Farm, reinforcing their commitment to reducing environmental impacts. The successful integration of BV Dairy underscores their expansion and dedication to sustainability. First Milk's excellence was recognized at the British and Irish Cheese Awards, where they received 12 prestigious medals for their cheese and dairy products.

Company Plans

Looking to the future, First Milk plans to invest in sustainable farming practices and innovative solutions. By leveraging their network of farms and forming strategic partnerships, they aim to enhance product value and strengthen environmental sustainability. Their participation in the Dairy Roadmap Coalition highlights their commitment to environmental progress across the supply chain. Despite challenging market conditions, First Milk remains dedicated to supporting its members and maintaining a resilient supply chain. As part of their regenerative farming programme, First Milk engages 21 dairy farmers in a project to capture groundwater and improve soil health. In December, they plan to reduce the standard manufacturing litre by 6p to 35.85p per litre, including its member premium, as a necessary step due to the ongoing supply-demand imbalance, described by Vice-chairman Mike Smith as 'very disappointing but necessary.'

Modified: 2025/12/07