This time last year, a new sense of confidence was emerging for UK dairy, driven by a flurry of acquisitions and investment. More morale-boosting consolidation looked likely – and that has proven to be the case over the past 12 months.

Müller, for example, bought Biotiful Gut Health in what was hailed a “no-brainer”. The brand aligned perfectly with its existing portfolio and offered the chance to expand into new growth areas, Müller said. Yeo Valley CEO Rob Sexton similarly hailed its acquisition of The Collective as a “perfect fit” – and, in our exclusive big interview, lays out plans for the future.