THE DALE FARM WAY

A cooperative of 1,300 farmers, Dale Farm’s relatively unique structure has a multitude of merits.

Member farmers are part of a democratic model that culminates in a board comprised of 10 farmer directors and two non-executive directors. The board meets on a monthly basis to review operational performance and strategic direction, as well as, importantly, setting the milk price for farmers.

“A cooperative model has a very long-term outlook and our strategy is centred around generational sustainability,” Whelan reveals. “This means our focus is on creating solid, profitable farming businesses which can be passed onto the grandchildren of the current owners.”

Leveraging this structure, the company’s brand family has grown to encompass a number of renowned household names including Dromona, Loseley, Rowan Glen, Spelga and Dale Farm itself.