Carbery Group and Dairygold Announce April Milk Prices Amid Market Challenges

Carbery Group announced its decision to hold the milk price for April, maintaining an average milk price of 40.8c/L including VAT. This price incorporates a 0.5c/L somatic cell count (SCC) bonus and the FutureProof sustainability bonus. The FutureProof bonus could reach a maximum of 1.25c/L by 2026. Carbery also stated that its average milk price for April, based on actual milk solids, is 43.21c/L including VAT. Additionally, Carbery's Stability Fund contribution will rise from 1.5c/L to 2c/L for the month. A spokesperson remarked that while dairy market returns remain pressured, the focus is on supporting milk price stability for farmer shareholders during peak production.

In parallel, Dairygold confirmed its decision to maintain the April milk price at 37c/L, based on standard constituents of 3.3% protein and 3.6% butterfat. This price includes sustainability and quality payments along with VAT. Dairygold's average farm gate milk price is calculated at 41.8c/L for April, considering the average milk solids achieved by its suppliers. Dairygold chairperson Pat Clancy commented on the global milk supply growth affecting market returns, noting some strengthening in protein markets despite weaker returns from butter and cheese.