Dale Farm and Aurivo announce all-island strategic partnership
The boards of both cooperatives have agreed to work together on projects including byproduct utilisation and added value protein. Pic: Liam Reynolds
Dairy cooperatives Dale Farm and Aurivo have today announced a strategic partnership. Following detailed discussions and exploration over recent months, both co-operatives have decided that now is not the right time to proceed with a merger process. The boards of both cooperatives have agreed to work together on projects including byproduct utilisation and added value protein.
Building on the close working relationship developed between the cooperatives over the past five years, the partnership will enable both organisations to maximise synergies, optimise market opportunities and drive operational excellence.
A steering group with representation from both cooperatives is being established to guide the strategic partnership. Work on the initial projects identified will commence immediately.
Nick Whelan, Group Chief Executive, Dale Farm said: “We have built a strong and trusted relationship with Aurivo over the past five years, and today’s announcement marks another important step for both cooperatives, and for the wider dairy sector on the island of Ireland.
“Our industry already has a worldwide reputation for quality, sustainability and innovation. In an increasingly competitive global market, farmer-owned cooperatives on this island must continue to work together to unlock scale and support long-term growth. This partnership marks a historic moment for the industry and strengthens our ability to deliver value for our members and the sector as a whole.”
Donal Tierney, CEO, Aurivo, said: “Aurivo and Dale Farm share the same ethos as farmer-owned, community-focused cooperatives. Through our collaboration in recent years, we have identified key areas where we can work together to benefit our farmers, shareholders and the wider dairy industry. This partnership sees two commercially strong dairy businesses work together to enhance processing efficiency, improve market returns and deliver long-term value. We’re excited for the future and ready to get started.”
