Questioned by the deputies of the Economic Affairs Committee on December 17, the director general of Lactalis France estimated, taking into account the criteria taken into account in the price formula concluded with the producer organizations, that the milk price paid to producers by Lactalis could increase by 20 to 30 €/1000 l on average over 2025.
Read also: Lactalis increases the price of agricultural raw materials by 10 euros by 2025
During this hearing dedicated to the situation and prospects of the group Lactalis as part of his announcement of a 9% reduction in its collection in France by 2023, Jean-Marc Bernier strived to ensure Lactalis’ attachment to France. “The group’s strategy is obviously to continue to develop France. It’s our first French market, a priority, we are attached to it”at-the guarantors.
Imports of creams to make president butter in France
He also brushed off attacks on imports of cream to make President butter.. “We are suffering from the situation. Sometimes we run out of cream and have to import it from Belgium. But 80% of President butter is made with French milk.”
“The dairy industry is about high volumes for low results. With a net result in 2023 of 1.45% – only, I want to say. », Jean-Marc Bernier, general manager of Lactalis France.
Reduce exposure to global markets to increase milk prices
As the group did when announcing the reduction in French collection, it explained that it would raise the question of dairy surpluses and the sector’s exposure to global prices. “We collect 30% of milk for which we do not have any finished valorized outlets, and which is transformed into milk powder subject to the international quotes who have been very depressed for years. There is a difference of around a hundred euros per thousand liters of milk recovery between milk powder and other finished products. » Adding: “We can say to producers: we can pay better for milk in France but we must reduce our exposure to the global milk powder market. »
Still time to find solutions for all producers affected by the drop in collection
Finally, few additional answers were provided for the milk producers who are waiting for notices of end of collection to be sent. “Give us time to work with our producer organizations. We give ourselves the time to do things well. We are confident that we will find a solution for everyone. »
And it is Richard Ramos, Modem deputy for Loiret, who best sums up the situation: “At the start of the audition you said that there will be no producer left behind and during the audition, you said that you will do the maximum for the producers. Is the maximum that no producer will be left behind? »
Read also Lactalis: “There will be a solution for each breeder”, promises Unell
