Dairy-Tech to offer support for dairy farmers as milk prices fall further

UK dairy farmers are being urged to prepare for a challenging spring as milk prices continue to slide, with some producers already receiving well below the cost of production, a situation that will be firmly in the spotlight at next week’s Dairy-Tech (4 February).

Latest figures suggest the UK average milk price currently stands at around 38p per litre, with indicators that prices may not have reached their lowest yet. This comes at a time when the cost of production for many farms is estimated to be between 40p and 50p per litre.

The pressure is being compounded by forage shortages following extreme weather conditions in some parts of the UK last year, forcing farmers to rely more heavily on bought- in feed and further increasing costs.

Robert Craig, Cumbrian Dairy Farmer and Chairman of Dairy-Tech organiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), said the coming months could prove critical for the sector.

“Milk prices dipping below the cost of production is a serious concern, and for some farmers this is already the reality,” he said. “With forage stocks tight on many farms, a lot will depend on how quickly grass growth picks up this spring. If conditions don’t go our way, we could see some businesses under real strain.”

These issues will be addressed head-on at Dairy-Tech next week (4 February) at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. The event will host a dedicated session on milk markets, led by market analyst Chris Walkland, focusing on current trends, price volatility and what farmers can expect in the months ahead.

Principal Sponsor Barclays will also host a financial session, offering farmers the chance to ask questions and explore strategies for managing cash flow, borrowing and business resilience.

Later in the day, Dairy Hub Sponsor Kite, part of the Asterra Group, will deliver a session focused on practical steps farmers can take to ride out what are hoped to be short-term challenges, covering both technical and business-focused approaches.

“Dairy-Tech is about providing farmers with timely information and practical support when it’s needed most,” added Mr Craig. “By bringing together market insight, financial guidance and timely advice, we want farmers to leave the show feeling more informed and better equipped to make decisions over the coming months.”

Alongside the seminar programme, Dairy-Tech will welcome nearly 300 exhibitors, many offering advice, technology, and practical solutions to help dairy businesses. Dairy-Tech Technical Partner AHDB will also have experts on hand to speak directly with farmers, providing insight into current milk markets and guidance on managing price fluctuations.

Early bird tickets are now on sale. For more information on the event and to secure your early-bird discounted ticket, visit www.dairy-tech.uk.

About RABDF 
RABDF is the sole UK charity dedicated to the needs of dairy farmers. Established in 1876, it is the only dairy organisation to hold a Royal Patronage. RABDF is the organiser of the Dairy-Tech event.