Waitrose reports surge in demand for unhomogenised milk, expanding milk storage facilities at the Leckford Estate

• New milk processing equipment at the Leckford Estate have been installed to keep up with demand

• Unhomogenised milk production at the Waitrose Farm - Leckford Estate - has surged by 74% in three years to meet the rising demand for unhomogenised milk 

• Sales of Waitrose Duchy Organic Unhomogenised Milk have soared +29% in the last year with searches on Waitrose.com for ‘unhomogenised milk’ up 200% in the last year

Waitrose reports soaring demand for unhomogenised organic whole milk - so much so, the Waitrose Farm, at the Leckford Estate in Hampshire, have had to install new milk processing units to keep up with demand. 

Between July 2023 and now, weekly production of Waitrose Duchy Organic Unhomogenised Milk at the Leckford Estate has surged by 74%. Following the installation of new milk tanks, total production capacity has now increased by 95% compared to 2023 levels to meet ongoing demand. All Waitrose own brand fresh cows milk is free range. 

Alice Grigoleit, Milk Buyer at Waitrose says: 'Unhomogenised milk is dairy much closer to its natural state. While safely pasteurised, it bypasses the high-pressure valves used to break down fat molecules, allowing the cream to rise naturally to the top. By not homogenising, it preserves the milk’s structural integrity, preserving its unique texture and a richer, more complex flavour profile.”

In the last year, sales for:

• Waitrose No.1 Organic Unhomogenised Ayrshire Whole Milk +34% 

• Waitrose Duchy Organic British Free Range Unhomogenised Whole Milk +29%
  

In the last year, searches on Waitrose.com:

• ‘Unhomogenised milk’ +200%

• ‘Unhomogenised’ +367%
  

Dan Robinson, Food Processing Manager at the Leckford Estate, says: “Unhomogenised milk is truly becoming the cream of the crop. We have seen customer demand for unhomogenised organic whole milk grow significantly in recent years; and in response we’ve invested in new processing equipment at our Leckford Estate to increase capacity by approximately 20%. We believe this surge in popularity is being driven by a desire for whole foods and a growing awareness of ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Many customers are now seeking the ‘brilliant basics’ and embracing a simpler, more natural approach to their diets. Plus - this milk tastes absolutely delicious!”

Notes to Editors

About Waitrose

Waitrose is the Home of Food Lovers, serving customers with exceptional quality products and expert service. 

Part of the John Lewis Partnership - the UK’s largest employee-owned business - Waitrose has 320 shops and a strong online business. It also has agreements with brands like Welcome Break and Shell, further bolstering its local footprint. 

It works closely with British farmers and suppliers, and is a market-leader for animal welfare and responsible sourcing - using sustainable farming methods, including on its very own farm, the Leckford Estate. 

Waitrose has 800 specialist counters across its shops, and holds a Royal Warrant as Grocer and Wine & Spirits Merchant to His Majesty King Charles III.