20 May 2008 - Members of the UK's most progressive farmer owned dairy processing business will receive more than 10% return on their investment for the last financial year.
Milk Link has confirmed that following the 2007/08 financial year its 1,600 Members will receive a 10.6% return on their investment in the form of a c. £4 million Processing Interest Payment.
This means a typical Milk Link Member will receive a payment of c. £2,000 before the end of May 2008.
Commenting on the payment Neil Kennedy, Milk Link’s Chief Executive, said "The £4 million payment to Members is a reward for the investment and commitment of our Members in building a major, added value dairy products business and demonstrates the strong performance of the business over the last 12 months.
"Looking forward, Milk Link remains committed to sustaining our progress and maximising returns to Members. This is essential given significant on-farm cost inflation being experienced by Members but will be against a backdrop of reduced commodity prices and substantially increased energy and distribution costs that are impacting on our processing operations."
Milk Link is one of the UK’s leading integrated dairy businesses, owned 100% by British dairy farmers. It is the country’s largest producer of cheese supplying award winning products to leading retailers including Sainsbury’s, Marks & Spencer, Waitrose, Tesco and Iceland. In addition to cheese, it also manufactures a complete portfolio of dairy products including long life milk,, creams, flavoured milks, custards, milk powders, yoghurts and soft cheeses supplying most major multiples and the food services sector.
Milk Link exists to provide long-term security for its dairy farmer Members.