Tirlán increases milk price for November 

Tirlán chairman John Murphy said that "after a period of milk price reductions for our milk suppliers, it is welcome to see the first increase in base price since September 2022". 

Tirlán has confirmed it will pay a total of 35.08c/litre for November milk supplies at 3.6% butterfat and 3.3% protein.

The November milk price is up 2c/litre from October and consists of a base milk price of 34.58c/litre, and a sustainability action payment of 0.5c/litre to all qualifying suppliers. 

Suppliers are encouraged to register their sustainability actions now on the Tirlán FarmLife website to secure the 0.5c/litre for 2024.

The Tirlán total price for November creamery milk, based on LTO constituents of 4.2% butterfat and 3.4% protein, is 38.16c/litre.

First increase in over a year

Tirlán chairman John Murphy said that "after a period of milk price reductions for our milk suppliers, it is welcome to see the first increase in base price since September 2022". 

"The main driver of increased market returns is the reduction in milk supply in some key regions," Mr Murphy said. 

It would be welcome to also see improvements in end-user demand, which remains challenged by inflationary pressures and geopolitical issues.

"At this time of year, it is important to recognise our suppliers that milk throughout the winter months to ensure consumers have access to high-quality fresh dairy products. 

"We have committed to a series of significantly enhanced seasonal payments that reflect our commitment to our top-quality portfolio of branded dairy products."

Increased Seasonality payments 

In recognition of the higher cost production model of winter milk and increased operating costs on farms, the board of Tirlán has approved enhanced seasonality payments; liquid and Autumn Calving Scheme (ACS) premiums for the next contract period.

Each contracted liquid and ACS supplier will receive a detailed letter setting out their proposed new enhanced contract details and the option of a voluntary exit package for those wishing to switch away from the supply of milk all year round.

Liquid and ACS suppliers will receive an increased premium payment for all contracted volumes that meet quality criteria during November and December 2023, Tirlán said.

Unconditional seasonality bonus payment rates 

Unconditional seasonality bonus payments apply over the winter months of December, January and February on all non-contracted milk volumes that meet quality criteria. 

The payment rate for December 2023 and January 2024 is 4c/litre, with 3c/litre available for February 2024.

The unconditional seasonality bonus payment will increase to 5c/litre in December 2024; 7c/litre in January 2025; and 5c/litre in February 2025. 

Payment will be adjusted to reflect the actual constituents of the milk delivered.