Milk production in Norrland has shown a significant and encouraging turnaround after several years of steady decline. According to Norrmejerier the shift marks a meaningful trend break that offers renewed optimism for farmers and the wider rural community.
Gerhard Bley, CEO of Norrmejerier, describes the development as a strong signal of resilience. He notes that the cooperative’s milk intake is no longer falling, something not seen for many years, and evidence that sustainable dairy production in northern Sweden is achievable.
This year’s milk intake is forecast to reach roughly 193.5 million kilos, matching 2024 levels. For 2026, Norrmejerier anticipates stable or slightly rising volumes, reversing the long-standing pattern of annual declines of 1–2 per cent.
The positive shift is closely linked to a strategic transformation the cooperative began two years ago. A key factor has been Norrmejerier’s strengthened financial performance, which has enabled a more than 15 per cent increase in the milk price paid to farmers since 2024—equating to around SEK 140 million in improved income for its members. As a result, the gap between Norrmejerier and Arla’s payments has narrowed to only a few öre per kilo, the closest alignment in many years.
Chairman and dairy farmer Göran Olofsson stresses that these improvements have tangible consequences for farmers’ ability to invest and continue operating.
Norrmejerier has also undertaken major efficiency measures, including the recent closure of its Luleå dairy, reducing fixed costs and boosting competitiveness. At the same time, more Norrland cheeses and dairy products are now available nationwide, strengthening both the cooperative’s finances and the reputation of northern Swedish dairy production.
Read the full press release from Norrmejerier HERE