Arla Foods and Fareshare have launched the UK’s pioneering free milk ATM to combat dairy poverty.
- The innovative installation allows easy access to fresh milk, aiming to support underprivileged communities.
- Arla pledges to provide refrigeration to 100 Fareshare-supported charities, enhancing dairy storage capabilities.
- Demand for dairy is rising, but inadequate storage facilities hinder charity operations.
- Arla’s initiative aligns with a recent collaboration with Aldi, aiming at broader support for dairy farmers.
In a groundbreaking move to address dairy poverty, Arla Foods, in collaboration with Fareshare, has introduced the UK’s first free milk ATM. This installation is strategically located in North London and aims to raise awareness and provide direct assistance by allowing the public to simply press a button to receive fresh milk. This initiative marks the beginning of a nationwide effort by Arla to enhance the accessibility of fresh dairy products, especially to those in need.
The initiative is underscored by a commitment to convenience and accessibility. Arla’s senior vice president, Jonathan Dixon, articulated the company’s mission: “We are on a mission to enhance the accessibility of nutritious dairy products for communities across the UK.” His remarks highlight a significant issue—many charities struggle to accept fresh dairy donations due to the absence of proper storage facilities. Through this collaboration with Fareshare, Arla aims to effectively bridge this gap.
Fareshare’s head of external affairs, Ben Ashmore, noted that the demand for nutritious dairy products is escalating. He emphasised that charities often lack the infrastructure to safely store such products, which limits their ability to serve their communities comprehensively. With Arla’s donation of fridges across the UK, these organisations are empowered to diversify their food offerings, thereby improving nutritional support to beneficiaries.
This campaign from Arla coincides with a recent partnership announcement with Aldi. The supermarket is set to invest over £30 million in Arla’s dairy farmers over the next three and a half years. This dual initiative not only supports immediate community needs through the ATM installation but also solidifies long-term backing for dairy producers, reflecting a holistic approach to resolving supply chain challenges.
Overall, Arla’s actions represent a profound commitment to improving food security and resource accessibility in the UK through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
Arla’s collaboration with Fareshare and Aldi signifies a comprehensive approach to tackling dairy accessibility and sustainability across the UK.
