Kerry Group were first out of traps to set April milk price holding the same as they paid in March at 32.3c/l, excl VAT, at 3.3% protein and 3.6% fat.

Glanbia followed today, again holding at the March price of 32.8c/l, excl VAT, at 3.3% protein and 3.6% fat. That’s a base of 32.35 c/litre plus the share of GI profit.

There were expectations that April milk price would increase again given that the Ornua purchasing price index (PPI) lifted again last week and markets remain strong.

Holding the April price in Kerry means it’s base price is 2.5c/l off the Ornua equivalent price. Kerry is not a member of Ornua, but they do some trade and business with Ornua.

The Ornua PPI for April was up to 115.1, which is the equivalent of 34.7c/l base, excl VAT, at base solids once the Ornua premium is included.