Müller UK & Ireland invests in West Lancashire site to boost powdered milk exports

UK – Müller UK & Ireland has outlined its next phase of transformation for its site in West Lancashire, with global demand for dairy products projected to increase over the coming decade.

The dairy company is investing significantly in the site’s capacity and capabilities to further strengthen its position as a major producer and exporter of powdered milk products made in Britain, with milk from British farms.

As the business works to create a flagship facility for milk drying and dairy ingredients products in Skelmersdale, it has confirmed plans to build an in-house logistics hub for the site.

With a dedicated on-site logistics hub designed to accommodate up to 65 milk collection vehicles, it will support the daily collection of raw milk from supplying farms.

To support the ongoing investment and growth of the site, the dairy company has confirmed it will recruit up to 90 new roles within a new logistics hub at Müller Skelmersdale.

Vacancies will range from drivers and driver trainers to vehicle technicians and logistics support roles.

In addition, following ongoing collaboration with the dairy company’s strategic long-term retail partners, Müller is proposing to move fresh milk and cream production from Skelmersdale to alternative locations within its existing UK network.

As part of these proposals, the business has confirmed a collective consultation at Skelmersdale to assess future operational requirements.

Under these proposals, Skelmersdale would become a centre of excellence for milk balancing – strengthening its role in securing supply chain resilience and supporting the wider dairy industry.

While the review may place up to 90 roles at risk of redundancy, the final outcome will not be determined until the process is complete.

Within the proposal, the dairy company would look for potential opportunities for skill redeployment across the wider site and Müller network.

The business will approach the consultation in an open and constructive manner, with a commitment to understanding colleagues’ views. All available options will be thoroughly evaluated before any decisions are made.

Rob Hutchison, CEO of Müller Milk & Ingredients, said: “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. Our investment will lead to better service and quality for our customers at home and abroad and new opportunities for local people.”

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