Guernsey Dairy ceases cheese production to free up space within the existing facility to maintain other essential operations.
The final batches were made before Christmas, and orders will continue to be fulfilled while stocks last. Although there is currently no shortage, some varieties are expected to sell out earlier than others. All types of Guernsey Dairy cheese are expected to disappear from the shelves of local retailers by the end of the year.
Cheese sales accounted for less than 1.2% of Guernsey Dairy’s annual revenue in 2024. Production of other products such as butter, cream and ice cream will increase using the milk that otherwise would have made cheese.
A detailed condition assessment in 2024 identified priority works to ensure the continued safe operation of the current Dairy. Among the most immediate requirements is the replacement of the milk packing and downline handling equipment.
The survey highlighted there was insufficient workspace within the current milk packing area to accommodate industry standard machinery and associated equipment. This will be made possible by releasing the area previously used for cheese production.
Guernsey Dairy operations director Andrew Tabel said the Dairy had to focus on its core objectives, in particular, as a sole supplier of Guernsey milk to satisfy local demand. “Guernsey Dairy has a special position in the local community, as the supplier of fresh dairy products that help sustain the island’s rural environment, farming economy and the Guernsey Cattle Breed,” he said.
“We need to repurpose space within the physical constraints of the existing Dairy to accommodate a new milk packing unit and all the peripheral equipment, without interrupting the processing and supply of fresh liquid milk. The strategic decision to cease cheese production will facilitate this.”
A shortlist of suppliers for the new milk packing system are expected to be invited to submit formal tenders in the next few weeks.
