The Shift in Milk Contracts in East Ayrshire: Local Organic Farm vs German Dairy Giant

A Scottish organic farm, Mossgiel Organic Dairy, has expressed its disappointment after losing a contract to supply milk to schools in East Ayrshire to Müller, a German multinational and the largest dairy brand in the UK. Previously partnered with the local council since 2021, Mossgiel aimed to offer sustainable, organic milk while competing with larger companies negatively impacting the industry. Despite winning multiple awards for quality and environmental friendliness—being the first UK dairy to eliminate single-use plastics—Mossgiel was overlooked in favor of Müller. The decision reportedly saves the council £6500 annually but at a community cost: recycling packaging waste could add £2000–£5000 per year, two local jobs equating to £50–55k in economic contribution would be lost, and £61,000 in local milk value would be cut from the farm's income, resulting in an approximate £111,000 loss to the local economy. Mossgiel criticized the decision for funneling profits abroad while diminishing local economic gains; however, East Ayrshire Council defends its choice, confident of offering nutritious school meals with certified welfare and health standards, ensuring a range of fresh, organic food is supplied. The council remains engaged with the local market through various support programs, striving to balance economic opportunities with public procurement processes.