UK dairy company First Milk has announced plans to cut 30 jobs across its Lake District and Haverfordwest creameries as part of a productivity and efficiency drive.

Around 20 positions are due to go at the Lake District site and another ten at Haverfordwest, the Glasgow-based company said in a statement today (19 September). Consultations with the affected employees will begin on 21 September and will take around 30 days. Trade unions have been informed.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

First Milk is owned by British farmers and supplies local and international markets, with products ranging from raw milk to block cheeses, butter and skimmed milk powder. The firm said it has invested GBP40m (US$54m) in the two plants over the past five years and that will continue.

However, CEO Shelagh Hancock said: “At our manufacturing sites our specific focus is on driving more for less – producing consistent, good-quality cheese, while concentrating on high productivity and factory optimisation. These changes are part of delivering this strategy.” 

While Hancock said the amount of cheese the company manufactures will increase next year and in the future, she added: “We need to improve the strength, efficiency and flexibility of our main manufacturing sites and make the assets work harder.”

Hancock replaced Mike Gallacher as CEO in March, when she said the company had “great credentials to build on”.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now