The organic milk sector has been on a roll recently, with new joint ventures and alliances announced here in the UK and abroad, new brand launches and a phenomenal export story amid good global demand for organic products. But what might be in store for the sector going forward? Can all of this be maintained, is further growth in the cards, or will Brexit put the dampers on the sector?

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Visitors to the RABDF’s new Dairy Tech event on February 7th have the opportunity to hear what some of the major players think, through a debate on the future of the sector sponsored by dedicated organic feed compounder Hi Peak Feeds. Three of the major players in the sector – Arla, Muller and OMSCo - will take part in a formal debate, and it is hoped other participants will contribute their news and views from the floor. The debate will by chaired by the industry journalist Chris Walkland. Taking the stage in the debate for the three companies will be:

• Graham Wilkinson - senior director of member relations at Arla UK, who is responsible for managing the supply and quality of milk into Arla Foods from its 2500 UK members, plus being responsible for leading Arla’s UK Agriculture strategy and customer Agri relationships;
• Rob Hutchison - agricultural director of Müller Milk & Ingredients, who is responsible for setting the overall agriculture and milk supply strategy for the UK and Ireland for the company, including organic;
• Richard Hampton - managing director of OMSCo, who is responsible for the smooth running of the organic dairy co-operative, and who undoubtedly had a busy year in 2017 with a new dairy joint venture announced by OMSCo in Europe and a new dairy alliance formed with Wyke Farms.

The debate will take place at 10.00am on the Dairy Hub. All are welcome to attend – be they organic farmers, ones who are interested in the sector or in becoming organic, or supply chain representatives.

“This is a great opportunity to discuss the future of the sector and how we can all work to ensure its continuing success,” says Rob Daykin, ruminant commercial manager of Hi Peak Feeds.

“I look forward to hearing the view of our panel, and those from delegates as well.”