Welsh Initiative Aims to Develop Sheep Milk Industry

Welsh sheep farmers are exploring new dairy markets with the launch of the Food & Drink Wales Dairy Sheep Wales Cluster. Unveiled at the Royal Welsh Show, this initiative seeks to build a viable sheep milk sector by uniting farmers, processors, retailers, researchers, and other stakeholders in the industry.

The initiative follows research backed by the Welsh Government that identified growth potential in sheep milk products. Llyr Gruffydd, Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, stated that the cluster offers a new opportunity for Welsh agriculture and aims to create a resilient and innovative industry.

The project collaborates with Glynllifon College, which is setting up a sheep milk dairy and demonstration facility, along with Farming Connect. This partnership aims to provide prospective producers with practical support and industry knowledge, linking them with processors and buyers.

James Holloway, leading the Food & Drink Wales Dairy Sheep Cluster, emphasized the project's foundation on years of research and industry engagement. He noted the strong potential and interest in sheep dairying in Wales, highlighting the cluster's role in identifying opportunities and addressing barriers.

Carwyn Adams, managing director of Caws Cenarth, expressed support for the initiative, citing the commercial potential seen in products like their Black Sheep cheese. He noted growing demand for premium dairy products with strong provenance, suggesting that the cluster could create new opportunities for Welsh sheep milk products.

The next phase of the project will focus on engaging producers, testing commercial pathways, and strengthening supply chain links. The initiative aims to improve confidence among producers and buyers and support those considering entry into the sector.