Arla’s supply chain director, Lars Dalsgaard said: “Bringing production of Anchor to the UK is part of our long-term growth strategy and the investment at Westbury has facilitated this.
“As well as being directly in line with our Closer to Nature ambition, it is a further example of Arla’s commitment to the UK as we have created a home for more British cream and are adding value to it.”
Production of Anchor butter at Westbury will begin from next month.
Arla launched a joint venture with Milk Link and First Milk in September 2010 and took responsibility for the butter operation at Westbury.
Joint venture
“Following production of retail block butter beginning at the site in August 2011, production of Anchor block butter will further increase the supply of UK produced butter for Arla, while at the same time significantly reducing food miles and in turn the company's carbon footprint,” according to a company statement.
Angry farmers
Meanwhile, earlier this month, angry farmers blocked Arla Food’s factory in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire.
The protest on August 15 – organised by the campaign group Farmers For Action – prevented lorries entering and leaving the factory.
“There will be more action. This is just a gentle reminder,” said one protester.
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