Many Lurpak fans have already be left unhappy as the popular butter's price soared to £9 for a kilo tub but now they could be facing further problems. For the manufacturer Arla Foods, which produces the dairy product, has warned there could be shortages ahead.
The firm said its farmers are facing problems recruiting suitable staff. It has been reported that four out of five of its UK farmers looking to hire staff have received "very few" or even "zero" applications from those with the correct experience and qualifications.
This means many are cutting back on milking with the firm saying milk volumes are currently down by about 3%. compared with last year. And it warned if this grew to 5% then there would be shortages on the shelves, reports the Birmingham Mail.
Arla Foods has a number of leading brands including Lurpak, Cravendale and Bob Milk, and it is understood all could be affected. And apart from shortages the firm is warning prices are likely to rise still further.
Arla Foods UK managing director Ash Amirahmadi issued the warning saying: “If 3% gets to 5%, we know that will lead to shortages, in terms of [meaning] we can’t meet the demand that’s there. We’re on the edge of dairy shortages and there is more inflation to come.”
He added: “The work with the government is less about inflation, but it’s more about making sure that the product keeps flowing."
According to the BBC, Lurpak has suggested the price rises are to ensure that dairy farmers get a fair deal. A statement from Lurpak's owner Arla Foods said: "We understand that recent inflation in food price is hitting many households really hard right now.
"Unfortunately, our farmers are facing a similar situation with prices for the feed, fertiliser and fuel they need to produce milk, all rising significantly in recent months. While we don't set the prices on the shelves, we do work closely with the retailers to ensure our farmers receive a fair price for the milk they produce."
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