Organic dairy movement must cooperate and remain true to beliefs

- Delegates at first ever Milk Summit look to the future -

The organic dairy industry must be careful not to compromise the values on which it was established, said delegates at the first ever Organic Milk Summit, held at last week's Dairy Event. The forum, organised by the Organic Milk Suppliers Cooperative (OMSCo), brought together representatives of the supply chain, including farmers, processors and manufacturers, to discuss how to build a sustainable future for the growing industry. Over 100 delegates attended the event, expressing overwhelming agreement that greater cooperation and commitment to excellent organic farming practices are essential to maintain a stable environment for growth.

The summit was arranged to stimulate discussion and build on the themes outlined in the Organic Milk Market Report published by OMSCo in January. The aim was to begin an ongoing dialogue which will help the supply chain work in unison towards a sustainable and prosperous future. Alongside integrity in traditional organic farming values, the other theme that emerged from discussion was one of cooperation and communication, with Yeo Valley Organic's Karl Tucker stating that the key to avoiding another boom-bust situation is "hitherto unheard of levels of cooperation throughout the supply chain."

Speakers argued that marketing of organic dairy products should be more joined up, with producers seeking to avoid fragmentation of supply. There was even a suggestion that certifying bodies should refuse to take on new producers who do not have the support of a recognised marketing group, to help avoid an over-supply situation.

Delegates acclaimed OMSCo's Market Report, with the availability of transparent market information seen as a key part of maintaining market stability. Delegates called on OMSCo, recognised as the organic dairy industry specialist and leader, to publish information on the market more regularly.

OMSCo Chairman Nicholas Saphir, who moderated the summit, comments, "This forum was a natural progression following the publication of our first Organic Milk Market Report. It was about getting everyone in the supply chain talking and we are very encouraged by the result. It is clear that all industry members, be they a farmer, retailer or processor, have the same concerns regarding maintaining a stable, growing market. The challenge now is for all parties to take this constructive discussion forward to build a sustainable future for the industry."

OMSCo is the UK's leading and longest established organic dairy cooperative uniquely focused on the production and supply of organic milk. With nationwide membership, OMSCo now supplies the majority of organic milk produced in this country from milk fields offering the most cost effective collection. The result is the best blend of stability, efficiency and highest possible farm gate returns. OMSCo is dedicated to building a sustainable long term organic milk market in the UK – to the benefit of farmers, processors and consumers.