Ehrmann Expands UK Presence with Trewithen Dairy Acquisition
In a significant move for the dairy industry, German dairy giant Ehrmann has expanded its footprint in the United Kingdom by acquiring Cornwall-based Trewithen Dairy. This strategic acquisition brings together two family-owned businesses with a shared commitment to quality and sustainability.
Ehrmann, with over 100 years of history, is known for its high-quality dairy products sold in over 75 countries, and the acquisition of Trewithen Dairy marks a new chapter in its global expansion.
Trewithen Dairy, owned by the Clarke family since 1976, is renowned for its top-tier Cornish milk production and a robust portfolio of dairy products, including milk, cream, butter, and yoghurt. Since 1994, Trewithen has transitioned from solely dairy farming to crafting premium dairy products sourced from local cows.
The move will see Ehrmann invest £20 million to expand Trewithen’s facilities and establish a state-of-the-art production plant in the Glynn Valley, Cornwall. Scheduled to open in 2026, this new facility will produce Ehrmann’s range of dessert products, such as High Protein and Grand Dessert, intended to cater to the growing UK market.
What’s more, this plant is expected to generate 15% of Ehrmann’s global sales annually, significantly boosting the company’s production capacity and market reach.
The Chairman of Ehrmann SE, emphasised the strategic importance of this acquisition by expressing that Ehrmann has seen substantial success in the UK over the past two years, collaborating with major supermarket chains to introduce new dairy tastes to consumers.
This acquisition is significant as it allows them to localise production, reduce their carbon footprint, and ensure the freshness of their products. They further praised Trewithen’s high-quality milk production, stating that they are delighted to combine German product innovation with the best of British milk.
Trewithen Dairy’s Owner expressed their own pride in their partnership with Ehrmann, remarking that they are incredibly proud of their roots and the quality of their pastures and cows.
Quality and sustainable growth are core values that they share deeply with Ehrmann, and this partnership will inject new energy into the Cornish dairy industry as they embark on their next phase of expansion.
The acquisition will secure the jobs of over 260 current employees at Trewithen Dairy and is expected to create numerous new high-skilled roles in the local economy. Additionally, the expanded plant will offer local dairy farmers a stable purchaser for Cornwall’s milk supply, ensuring competitive pricing and a guaranteed premium.
Furthermore, this investment will enhance Trewithen’s processing capacity and capabilities, making it a cornerstone of Ehrmann’s UK operations.
Ehrmann’s UK presence has grown since 2022, with its products available in major supermarkets, like Aldi, Morrisons, Iceland, and more recently, CO-OP. With the expansion of its UK production, Ehrmann aims to increase the distribution of its products across the UK, bringing more of its beloved dairy treats to British consumers.
The company’s guiding principle, “from the family, for the family,” underscores its commitment to delivering high-quality products that cater to the tastes and preferences of UK families.
Trewithen Dairy’s CEO expressed optimism about the future, stating that they are delighted to expand their offerings, create more jobs, and bring the joy of quality Cornish produce to more tastebuds across the UK. The new products are already proven in other markets, and they are excited to produce them with excellent British milk for more British consumers.
In conclusion, Ehrmann’s acquisition of Trewithen Dairy represents a significant milestone in the UK dairy industry. It brings together two family-owned businesses dedicated to quality and sustainability, promising growth, innovation, and new opportunities for the local economy and consumers alike.
News Credits: Global dairy company Ehrmann set to open UK production plant with acquisition of Trewithen Dairy
Things you may also like: