The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Müller UK & Ireland has set out the next phase of investment at its Skelmersdale site in West Lancashire, proposing a number of changes to production at the site.

With global demand for dairy products forecast to rise over the coming decade, the business is investing significantly to expand the capacity and capabilities of the site, using milk sourced from British farms.

As part of its ambition to create a flagship milk-drying and dairy ingredients facility, Müller has confirmed plans to develop a new in-house logistics hub at Skelmersdale. The hub will be designed to accommodate up to 65 milk collection vehicles and will support the daily collection of raw milk from supplying farms, enhancing operational efficiency and supply chain resilience.

To support the ongoing investment, Müller has also confirmed it will recruit up to 90 new roles linked to the new logistics hub. Vacancies will include drivers, driver trainers, vehicle technicians and logistics support roles.

Alongside these developments, Müller is proposing changes to production at the site following discussions with its long-term retail partners. Under the proposals, fresh milk and cream production would move from Skelmersdale to alternative locations within Müller’s existing UK manufacturing network.

As a result, the company has entered into a collective consultation at the Skelmersdale site to assess future operational requirements. Subject to the outcome, Skelmersdale would transition into a centre of excellence for milk balancing, reinforcing its role in securing supply chain resilience and supporting the wider UK dairy industry.

The review could potentially place up to 90 roles at risk of redundancy, although Müller stressed that no final decisions have been made. The business said it would explore opportunities for redeployment of skills across the wider Skelmersdale site and the Müller UK network as part of the consultation process.

Müller said it will approach the consultation in an open and constructive manner, with a commitment to understanding employee feedback and evaluating all available options before making decisions.

“We’re investing in a flagship facility that will set new standards for milk drying, dairy ingredients products and logistics, creating a bright future for Müller Skelmersdale,” said Rob Hutchison, CEO of Müller Milk & Ingredients.

“Our investment will lead to better service and quality for our customers at home and abroad, and new opportunities for local people. Change is never easy, and consultations can be unsettling. We take this process seriously and will carefully consider every option before making decisions." He continued.

“We’re confident in the plans underway and the future developments we’re working on at Müller Skelmersdale – initiatives that will strengthen our position and deliver benefits across the entire dairy supply chain. We are creating long-term and highly skilled local job opportunities and putting Skelmersdale firmly on the map as a key player in the UK dairy industry.”