At the annual meeting of Svensk Mjölk at the end of April, chief executives from five major dairy companies expressed optimism about the future and a clear willingness to strengthen collaboration across the sector.
The panel—featuring leaders from Arla Foods Sweden, Norrmejerier, Falköpings Mejeri, Gäsene Mejeri, and Skånemejerier—highlighted the importance of joint action as a strong signal to the wider industry, according to an article on LRF’s news page.
Discussions ranged from food preparedness and production conditions to consumer demand. As Skånemejerier’s CEO, Cecilia von Perglas, noted, milk production ultimately depends on consumption in a market-driven economy. Encouragingly, recent figures point to growth: dairy production rose by 3.6% in 2025, while public interest remains high, with seven in ten Swedes reporting weekly milk consumption (Novus survey).
Several product categories are expanding rapidly, particularly protein-rich items such as quark and cheese, helping to drive demand and create new opportunities. The panel also emphasised milk’s nutritional value and its role in balanced diets, with school milk programmes seen as key to establishing healthy habits early in life.
Looking ahead, the tone was notably forward-looking. Executives pointed to increasing consumption—especially among younger consumers—and identified opportunities in premium Swedish products, exports, and public procurement. Sweden’s strong reputation for quality was repeatedly cited as a competitive advantage.
A key question from LRF chairman Palle Borgström centred on whether the industry should unite to further boost demand. The panel’s response was clear: collaboration is essential, as no single company can drive consumption alone.
With dialogue already underway, industry leaders stressed the need to promote the value of Swedish dairy more effectively. Their outlook remained confident, with Cecilia Kocken, Arla, predicting that, within five years, dairy products could once again be seen as a “hot” category.