Dairy UK today urged the dairy sector to move forward and to commit to working together to build an industry where the entire supply chain is able to invest for the future.
Director General Jim Begg said there is no ’magic bullet’ solution to the challenges the industry faces and greater collaboration and mutual respect are needed to enhance opportunity for all throughout the dairy supply chain.
He said: "The foundations for the future are solid. Demand for dairy products is stable in the UK and growing strongly in developing markets. British dairy processing is well invested and looking to invest further, and production off farms is rising for the first time for many years.
"As a cross-industry body, it is clear to Dairy UK that the industry cannot expect others to provide altruistic solutions to its problems. The industry needs to take on this responsibility.
"There is no magic bullet, no quick fix. Dairy farmers, processors, retailers, representative organisations – none of these can deliver this future on their own. It requires genuine supply chain partnerships and collaboration, and the pursuit of competitiveness and efficiency throughout the supply chain. The market for dairy products is tough, but the markets are tough for everybody. However, the market has to be part of the solution and we need to move beyond the narrow debate of who is getting what in terms of margin."
"It is in everyone’s interests for farmers and businesses throughout the dairy supply chain to be as efficient and profitable as possible. We believe that greater commitment from all involved in the dairy supply chain to work together would enable the industry to move forward. This commitment would have many levels, including environmental performance, exemplary animal welfare and ethical standards, bringing to market products that meet consumer aspirations and contribute to a healthy diet."
"The bottom line is that we need to build this together. A sustainable solution will take time, so we need to start now. We will all benefit if everyone in the supply chain demonstrates their commitment to the sustainable future that the dairy industry deserves."
