Crowdfunding bid to save Campbeltown Creamery launched
The dairy co-operative announced plans to sell the creamery last year as part of a move away from producing smaller-scale brands, which led to the opportunity for a farmer-led buyout.
The Mull of Kintyre Milk Supply Cooperative planned to fund the purchase through use of a levy from every litre of milk produced, in addition to external funding, which is currently being sought.
Local dairy farmer Thomas Cameron said: “We are currently facing a huge and exciting opportunity with a clear mission – to secure the future of the Campbeltown Creamery for the benefit of the Kintyre community.
‘Save a well-known brand’
“We will also be in a position to save a well-known brand and contribute to Scotland’s reputation as a land of food and drink.”
Campbeltown Creamery has produced cheese using milk from 29 farms in the area since 1923. Its most famous produce, Mull of Kintyre cheddar cheese, has been manufactured at the site since the 1970s.
“Dairy farms in the area need the creamery in order to thrive and the creamery needs us,” Cameron added. “Given the challenges of sustaining a vibrant economy in this remote part of Scotland, the role of the dairy sector in Kintyre is fundamental to its success.
Long established provenance
“Mull of Kintyre cheddar is made to a long-established recipe and it is its provenance, as well as taste, which is sought by buyers, including those from Tesco and Sainsbury’s, from across the UK.”
A number of food and drink manufacturers have launched successful crowdfunding campaigns.
In April, snack brand Serious Pig raised more than £500,000 from more than 1,300 investors via a Crowdcube funding campaign, smashing its £350,000 target.
Meanwhile, last year saw free-from food manufacturer Creative Nature and ice cream maker Northern Bloc turn to crowdfunding platforms for investment in their business.
