Nescafé’s popular frothy coffee varieties, whether it’s the classic cappuccino or a flavorful caramel latte, are crafted in Cumbria, just across the border. Nestlé established its factory in the village of Dalston near Carlisle in 1962, initially focusing on powdered and condensed milk production. The factory expanded its offerings in 1992 to include cappuccino mixes and later diversified into producing a wide array of Nescafé frothy coffees and Coffee Mate in 2018.
Interestingly, the milk used in these coffee products is sourced locally from Dolphenby Farm, situated a mere 20 miles away. Jonny Slack, a 36-year-old co-manager at Dolphenby along with his colleague Robert Craig, emphasizes Nestlé’s dual role as a global entity and a local employer. Jonny’s journey in agriculture began at 16 as a cowman, ultimately leading him to become a stakeholder at Dolphenby where he now resides with his family.
Dolphenby Farm, a part of the British farmer-owned dairy co-operative First Milk, holds a prestigious B Corp certification, signifying its adherence to high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency across various aspects such as employee welfare, charitable initiatives, and supply chain practices. This certification mirrors First Milk’s dedication to sustainability, regenerative farming practices, and leveraging business for positive impact.
At Dolphenby, the commitment to regenerative farming is evident in their approach towards soil health and biodiversity preservation, with reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers. The farm benefits from its conducive climate for grass growth, fostering a sustainable agricultural model. The enduring partnership between First Milk and Nestlé, spanning over two decades, has been pivotal in driving success at Dolphenby Farm.
Robert highlights the exceptional nature of their partnership with Nestlé, emphasizing the mutual support towards transitioning to regenerative practices. Nestlé’s holistic approach extends beyond business operations, focusing on nurturing talent and ensuring the well-being of individuals throughout its supply chain. Robert’s farming lineage stretches back several generations, underscoring the enduring legacy and evolution of agricultural practices within his family.
From the humble beginnings of his grandfather milking cows in Sussex post-World War II to the present-day operation in Cumbria with a substantial herd size across multiple sites, Robert’s journey epitomizes the growth and transformation within the farming industry.