Axis, the milk marketing business for the Midlands, is increasing its winter trading allowance from 4% to 20% in a bid to raise production levels. This means that the co-op will not withhold money from members’ mik cheques until they have gone 20% over their individual quota. Money currently withheld will be released up to the new allowance by mid January.

Managing director Paul Beswick said: “Milk is still in very short supply and the UK is now six days below the quota profile. However, it remains possible that the UK will reach quota this year and farmers are responsible for planning their quota needs based on their own assessment of market conditions. This is just one way in which Axis hopes to boost members’ cashflow this winter.”

In September Axis announced a reformed pricing package (see connectingdairy news 27 September).