Berglandmilch: Stable milk market and green future for the region!

Berglandmilch: Stable milk market and green future for the region!

In a current trade talk, Chris Radda, editor of medianet, describes the situation in the Austrian dairy industry and the role of Berglandmilch eGen. Josef Braunshofer, managing director of Austria's largest dairy based in Wels, emphasizes that the milk market is stable after the industry has had turbulent years. Berglandmilch generates sales of around 1.3 billion euros and stocks well-known brands such as Schärdinger, Stainzer, Tirolmilch and Lattella.

The cooperative relies on sustainable production methods. A crucial step is the comprehensive conversion of all five plants to biomass in order to become independent of natural gas from Russia. These measures not only promote local agriculture, but also contribute to the economic security of the farms. Braunshofer emphasizes that cows that are addressed by name are healthier and that permanent tethering is no longer practiced in animal husbandry. The relevance of the “clean label” for dairy products, which contain fewer ingredients than plant-based alternatives, is also discussed.

Sustainability initiatives

In addition to the changes already mentioned, Berglandmilch has made significant progress in its climate offensive in recent years. The opening of a new wastewater treatment and biogas plant took place in Aschbach-Markt, which was led by Braunshofer, State Agricultural Councilor Dr. Stephan Pernkopf and Berglandmilch chairman Stefan Lindner were inaugurated. This plant is fed with solids from the wastewater treatment plant and covers approximately 25 to 30% of the dairy's gas needs, which is another step towards renewable energy.

Berglandmilch put a biomass cogeneration plant into operation in its first plant over ten years ago. Since then, Wörgl has operated without fossil fuels, with excess heat being fed into a local heating network that supplies 1,300 households with energy. Another milestone was the decision in 2013 to use 100% green electricity. The installation of photovoltaic systems on the roofs of the eight factories covers an area equivalent to more than five football fields.

Future outlook

International markets are important for Berglandmilch. In addition to the domestic market, the cooperative also serves countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain and Greece. Braunshofer emphasizes the need to appeal to younger generations and keep established brands modern. Given the fragmentation of the media landscape, he emphasizes the importance of diverse communication channels. He expects stable development in the milk market in the future, particularly a trend towards enriched yoghurt products.

Overall, the development of Berglandmilch shows that sustainability, regional independence and innovation are central topics that are of great importance in the dairy industry. The cooperative remains committed to further advancing these principles and thereby having a positive impact on the environment and the local community.