Stability returns to the milk market as Dairy Crest hikes interim profits

The Surbiton-based firm said rising cheese prices reduced pressure on margins and stocks were being eaten away after a period of oversupply.

This has enabled Dairy Crest to concentrate on its core brands such as Utterly Butterly and Yoplait, which have both gained market share.

But the firm has been unable to strike a deal with suppliers over milk prices.