Dairy co-op seeks members

California Dairies Inc., the second-largest dairy processing cooperative in the nation, announced it is now accepting applications for new facilities. Approved new members will be allocated production base associated with CDI's capacity allocation program.

CDI said a recent "capacity optimization of current assets" has allowed the cooperative to increase its milk handling capacity by 2.5 million pounds per day. Improved sales from its core business and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Challenge Dairy Products, also have increased CDI's milk supply needs, it said.

"Boasting one of the industry's lowest capital goals, a recently restructured member capital vesting program and a five-year average return on base capital of 28 percent, CDI is one of the most attractive opportunities for dairy producers in the state of California," said Andrei Mikhalevsky, CDI president and CEO. "With a strategic plan focused on innovation, management and the board of directors are dedicated to adding value to its members' milk."

CDI is the largest member-owned milk marketing and processing cooperative in California, producing 43 percent of the state's milk. Co-owned by more than 390 dairy farmers who ship 17 billion pounds of milk annually, the co-op produces butter, fluid milk and milk powders. It is the home of two brands of butter, Challenge and Danish Creamery. Its products are available in all 50 states and in more than 50 countries.

California dairy farmers interested in applying for membership should contact Eric Erba at 559-625-6114 or email eerba@californiadairies.com.

For more information, visit www.californiadairies.com.