The first facility in Wales to process milk exclusively sourced from Welsh farms is starting operations.
Pembrokeshire Creamery in Haverfordwest will have an initial processing capacity of 60 million litres per year and plans to double that by 2025. The facility is creating 60 jobs.
The creamery says that by eliminating the need to transport milk to England for processing it is significantly reducing food miles, streamlining the supply chain, creating new skilled jobs in Pembrokeshire, and bolstering local farming communities.
The grass-to-bottle milk production unit is owned in part by Puffin Produce, known for its Blas y Tir brand. The creamery’s first client, Asda Wales, will receive their inaugural delivery of their 26,000,000 litres a year of milk next week, with Lidl following closely behind.
Once certified, Pembrokeshire Creamery will be the only liquid milk facility in Wales to achieve certification from the Brand Reputation Compliance (BRC) Global Standards (BRCGS). This certification ensures that products meet stringent industry benchmarks.
Mark McQuade, Managing Director, Pembrokeshire Creamery said:
“We will be the only BRC Certified facility to offer Welsh milk that is also bottled in Wales, enabling us to offer an authentically Welsh milk supply for Welsh supermarket stores.
“This unique selling point gives Pembrokeshire Creamery, and the farmers who work with us, a strong point of difference in meeting the needs of both retailers and consumers who increasingly value locally-sourced produce.”
Puffin Produce is a member of CLA Cymru. CLA Cymru Director Victoria Bond said the creamery underscores CLA Cymru’s belief in committing to supporting food and drink in Wales and promoting farm-to-fork principles in action, a key highlight of the organisation’s Rural Growth plan.
She said:
“Pembrokeshire Creamery and the team behind it exemplifies the innovation and dedication of Welsh agriculture and rural food industry. This facility not only provides high-quality milk but also strengthens our local economy by supporting Welsh farmers and creating jobs. It’s a proud moment for Wales, and CLA Cymru is thrilled to see such a commitment to sustainability and excellence by our members.
“Pembrokeshire Creamery’s focus on reducing food miles and supporting local farming communities aligns with Rural Growth’s broader goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship. By sourcing milk locally, the creamery ensures fresh, traceable dairy products for its customers, bolstering the Welsh agricultural sector.”
