Calon Wen, a leading Welsh organic dairy co-operative, is boosting its output by offering financial incentives to farmers transitioning to organic milk production. The co-op, known for its high-quality organic products, is introducing an interest-free loan scheme and recruitment bonuses to support and attract new organic dairy farmers. This initiative aligns with Calon Wen’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and meeting growing consumer demand for organic dairy products.
Calon Wen, a leading Welsh organic dairy co-operative, is actively encouraging dairy farmers to transition to organic milk production by offering financial incentives. Established in 2000 by four farmers in Carmarthenshire, Calon Wen has grown into one of the UK’s prominent organic brands, boasting a turnover of approximately £12.5 million.
Calon Wen’s Operations and Growth
The co-operative is renowned for its Calon Wen branded milk, butter, and cheese, available in independent and multiple retailers across England and Wales. Calon Wen is forecasting a minimum flat rate price of 50p per litre for 2025/2026 with no seasonal deductions, aiming to attract both established organic producers and those considering a switch to organic dairying.
Current Membership and Standards
Calon Wen currently has 25 organic dairy farmer members across Wales, collectively producing around 20 million litres of milk annually. The co-operative maintains strict quality criteria for the milk it receives: a butterfat content of 4%, protein level of 3.15%, a Bactoscan count below 50, and a Somatic Cell Count (SCC) below 300. These standards ensure the high quality of Calon Wen’s products and align with organic certification requirements.
Incentives for Transitioning to Organic
In response to the absence of government support for organic conversion, Calon Wen is offering a range of incentives to encourage farmers to make the switch. The co-operative is introducing an in-conversion loan scheme, providing interest-free loans of 2p per litre to cover the cost of the final year of conversion. This loan will be repayable over the first two years of production.
Additionally, Calon Wen is offering a recruitment incentive for existing members who successfully bring new farms into the co-operative. The support extends beyond financial incentives, with Calon Wen providing extensive agricultural expertise, training, and resources to facilitate a smooth transition for new members.
Support and Training
Calon Wen is committed to assisting farmers through every step of the conversion process. The co-operative offers training programs, guidance on organic farming practices, and ongoing support to ensure that new recruits can adapt to organic standards effectively. This comprehensive support aims to help farmers overcome the challenges associated with transitioning to organic production.
Future Outlook
As Calon Wen approaches its 25th anniversary, the co-operative remains optimistic about the future of organic dairy farming. The increased consumer demand for organic products and the opportunity for new farmers to join the co-operative positions of Calon Wen for continued growth and success in the organic dairy sector. The co-operative’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and its proactive approach to supporting farmers underscores its role as a leader in the organic dairy industry.
