Orkney faces a milk shortage as Crantit Dairy struggles to meet demand due to a decline in local dairy farms. Tesco Kirkwall will no longer stock Orkney Milk, highlighting challenges in the dairy sector.
Orkney is grappling with a milk shortage as Crantit Dairy, a leading producer of Orkney Milk and Orkney Ice Cream, struggles to keep up with demand. The shortage, confirmed on August 2, 2024, results from a significant reduction in local dairy farming.
Background
Crantit Dairy has long been a staple of the Orkney dairy industry, renowned for its high-quality products. However, the recent decline in the number of dairy farms on the islands has led to a shortage of milk, impacting the dairy’s ability to supply its products reliably.
Impact on Retailers
Tesco Kirkwall, a major outlet for Orkney Milk, announced that it would cease stocking the product due to Crantit Dairy’s supply issues. Store manager Matthew Johnstone explained that Tesco was unable to receive the necessary volumes of milk to meet customer demand. He acknowledged Crantit Dairy’s longstanding support and expressed hope that the product could return to shelves if supply improves.
Crantit Dairy’s Response
In a statement on their Facebook page, Crantit Dairy addressed the situation, attributing the shortage to the reduction in local dairy farms. The dairy expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and emphasized that the issue is with milk availability rather than Tesco’s commitment. They highlighted their efforts to manage the situation and ensure a stable supply in the future.
Broader Implications
The milk shortage underscores a broader issue facing the Orkney dairy industry. The decline in dairy farming has created a supply gap, affecting local production and availability. This situation raises concerns about the sustainability of local dairy farming and the need for measures to support and revitalize the sector.
Future Prospects
Crantit Dairy is actively working to address the supply challenges and is exploring solutions to increase milk production. The dairy is committed to finding ways to stabilize the supply and resume full operations. In the meantime, they are engaging with local farmers and industry experts to develop strategies for overcoming the current difficulties.
