Dale Farm and Aurivo co-ops announce partnership

The two dairy co-operatives have announced a 'strategic partnership', saying it was not the right time for a merger

Dale Farm and Aurivo have announced a 'strategic partnership' between the two co-ops.

Following discussions, a strategic partnership has been announced between the Dale Farm and Aurivo dairy cooperatives.

Both co-operatives have decided 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.

Over the past five years, a close working relationship has developed between the two co-ops, and the partnership said its aim was to build on that.

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.

Dale Farm group chief executive Nick Whelan 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.” 

"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.” 

Aurivo chief executive Donal Tierney 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.”