ADAS sells Dairy Group

FARM CONSULTANCY business ADAS has sold its Dairy Group wing to staff, seriously curtailing its involvement with the dairy industry.

The new company, still called The Dairy Group, was bought out by its 30-strong team of consultants and staff.

Ian Powell, managing director at the new firm, vowed to continue to supply the same range of services to clients.

“The new business structure will give us the flexibility to respond quickly to the changing needs of the industry. With CAP reform and the constant cost/price squeeze dairy farmers are increasingly looking for truly independent dairy specialists,” he said.

Colin Speller, a director of ADAS, said that he would still use the Dairy Group‘s services for expert consultancy.

“We‘ve taken a strategic view to move out of front-line consultancy both in arable and in dairy. We‘ve found it difficult to invest in this business, because the returns don‘t really justify further investment,” said Mr Speller.

Steve Collier, ADAS‘ chief executive, said that dairy consultancy was better in a smaller, more tightly focused business.

“ADAS will continue to work closely with farmers through its work for DEFRA and other clients, and our national network of business management consultants will continue to provide farm business advice,” he said.