MORE than a year on from the launch of the South Australian Farmers’ Own milk brand, dairyfarmer Gary Zweck, Blyth, said the decision to supply milk for the label had been a good choice for his business.
The Woolworths-owned brand sources milk from five dairy operations based in the Barossa and Mid North.
Mr Zweck said the brand launch had been particularly timely, given the volatility in farmgate prices.
“We were able to lock in sustainable pricing and a rolling three-year contract,” he said. “Just having that security, it gives us confidence to invest in the farm into the future, which is something we’d wish for all farmers.”
Mr Zweck said the brand had provided a clearer connection between milk producers and the end users.
“I think consumers are always looking for a relationship between the farmer and themselves and that is what the brand is for,” he said.
“The fact that milk is picked up, processed separately, and we know that it is our milk that goes into the bottle is great as a supplier.”
Last year the Farmers’ Own brand was a finalist in the SA Regional Awards for the Central Region.
While they did not win the award, Mr Zweck said it was gratifying to see one of the major winners was Red Hot Shot Coffee, which uses the Farmers’ Own brand in its coffee.
Mr Zweck said five of the original farms were still fulfilling the requirements for the SA and NT Woolworths stores, but he is hopeful the brand will continue to grow with the potential to spread into other dairy products.
Elizabeth Anderson
Editor of Stock Journal.
Editor of Stock Journal.
