A farmer contacted me earlier this week wondering about Lakeland Dairies’ involvement with Boyle Milling, after the farmer received a meal bill with both companies on the invoice. It turns out that Lakeland has been milling for Boyle Milling at its Killeshandra site during the low production summer period.

A spokesman for the co-op told me that the move is part of its strategy to explore new territories.

“Lakeland Dairies has been contract-manufacturing feeds for Boyle Milling throughout the summer. Lakeland is seeking to develop this relationship further as a provider of very high-quality animal feeds throughout Co Roscommon and the wider region,” the spokesman said.

I understand that the relationship might be more long-term than Lakeland is admitting.

This is the latest in a strategy by the Cavan-based co-op to grow its milk pool and sign up new members.

Earlier this year, it ran a series of adverts in local newspapers in Roscommon and Offaly, neither of which are in the traditional Lakeland catchment area.