British farmers flush milk down the gutter

The shortage of truck drivers in the United Kingdom is currently so great that dairy farmers are forced to let the milk run into the gutter. British slaughterhouses are also short of hands, so pig farmers have no choice but to cull their animals. All in all, the situation is worrying.

National media in the UK are reporting stories of dairy farmers letting the milk go. One of the victims is Henry Bloxham, 60, who milks some 260 cows in Alberbury, west of Birmingham. Besides the fact that the milk collection falters, the supply of feed is also an issue. Arable farms are also in trouble.

100.000 drivers shortage
The National Farmers Union speaks of a very worrying situation. Quick action is needed to prevent bigger problems. There are fears of major logistical problems in the British food chain with all its consequences. For example, McDonald's has stopped selling milkshakes and some soft drinks since late August due to supply chain problems. There is also a threat of beer shortages in British pubs.

However, a solution is not within reach. Transport Federation Road Haulage Association says there are about 100.000 truck drivers short. The staff shortage is due to the exodus of European migrant workers as a result of Brexit. The corona pandemic is not helping either.

Huge slaughter backlog
The staff shortage is also hurting British slaughterhouses. It seems that large slaughter groups cannot fill a quarter of the capacity. The National Pig Association says that pig farmers are forced to cull pigs that are ready for slaughter, because otherwise the stables will become too full.

The slaughter backlog is estimated at around 100.000 pigs. Various sectors are calling for a quick relaxation of immigration rules as a solution to the acute staff shortage.

Wouter Job

Wouter Baan is Head of Meat & Dairy at BoerenbusinessAt DCA Market Intelligence, he focuses on dairy, pork, and meat markets. He also monitors (business) developments within agribusiness and interviews CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@boerenbusiness. Nl

© DCA Market Intelligence. This market information is subject to copyright. It is not permitted to reproduce, distribute, disseminate or make the content available to third parties for compensation, in any form, without the express written permission of DCA Market Intelligence.