UK – Industry analysts Plimsoll Publishing has released a gloomy assessment of the UK’s dairy industry.

Its latest report states that zero growth, sliding profits and escalating debts have pushed almost one third of UK dairies to the brink of failure.

Plimsoll’s annual financial health check on the top 333 companies reveals that consolidation will be essential as supply is currently outstripping demand.

Half the companies rated have deteriorated in overall financial strength from last year, while 65 companies are experiencing their second year as a ‘danger’ rating, suggesting time for them is running out.