Graham's dairy reports record profit rise

Robert Graham (L) said the company was investing in its Bridge of Allan plant

Scotland's largest independent dairy has broken the £1m profit barrier for the first time in its history.

Bridge of Allan-based Graham's The Family Dairy said its pre-tax profits rose by 28% in the year-end results to 31 March 2010.

Turnover increased from £40m in 2009 to more than £41m.

The 71-year-old company attributed the profits rise to "product innovation" and now distributing to the whole of the UK.

Spreadable butter

Robert Graham, managing director of the dairy, said: "Our traditional values of integrity, loyalty and excellent service are at the heart of everything we do.

"Success comes from the passion and commitment we have for our business, the quality of our products and as farmers ourselves, enjoying a long-standing relationship with many loyal Scottish farmers who we are proud to maintain a fair price for their high quality milk."

The company has acquired Highland-based Claymore Dairies - its 25th buyout in recent years - and said it was investing in the expansion of its butter plant in Bridge of Allan, near Stirling.

Graham's is also planning to launch the first spreadable butter from a Scottish dairy in 2011.

The Graham family has farmed in the Stirling area for five generations and currently partners more than 50 Scottish farmers.