Arla Foods unveils new standards model for UK dairy farming

Arla Foods UK has unveiled its programme for setting sustainable and profitable standards in the dairy farming industry.

The Ayla UK 360 programme will cover six areas needed to build a lucrative and responsible dairy farm business.

Arla Foods UK Agriculture head and Arla UK 360 programme strategic lead Graham Wilkinson said: “This programme is a vision of how we help drive sustainable businesses for UK dairy farmers. It isn’t just about producing high-quality dairy products.

“It continues the journey of our owners in driving a sustainable business, as stewards of the countryside and a critical part of UK food production. Crucial to its success is the support of retailers and food service businesses, as only then can the vision become a reality on farms across the UK.”

The programme has been developed following a six-month trial with 79 Arla farm owners.

Aldi is the first UK retailer to sign up for the programme. The retailer and will work with a group of Arla farm owners through the Aldi Dairy Farm Partnership to share knowledge through the supply chain and reduce waste.

Arla claims that its programme will incorporate the best practices in dairy farming across animal health and welfare, people development, environment, as well as natural resources, community engagement, and economic resilience.

The programme will also drive a vision for research and development to lead the UK dairy agenda.

Wilkinson further added: “Arla farmer owners have a long-standing history of receiving support from UK retailers, however, with a new Agriculture Bill on the horizon, our owners want to drive sustainable change. As a farmer-owned cooperative, we have to act in the best interest of all our farmer’s owners.”