Brighter future
OPINION: The abrupt departure of Synlait chief executive Grant Watson could be a sign that Chinese company Bright Dairy, the new majority owner of the listed company, is taking charge.
"The market has recovered faster than expected, but recent volatility has shown us it still remains fragile," says Synlait Milk managing director John Penno.
Penno also acknowledged how financially difficult the current season is for suppliers and says this increased forecast market milk price range will be well received.
"Cash flows are incredibly important for our suppliers, particularly as they head into winter. We indicated in February that our next update would be in May, but given current market conditions, I'm pleased we can provide one now."
Penno adds that this update will enable Synlait suppliers to manage their finances with more certainty and a corresponding increase in advance rates will further support this.
"We believe the market will continue to recover in the medium term as consumption expands and production growth slows in response to lower pricing. However, we remain mindful of the additional milk growth likely to come from Europe as milk production quotas are removed on April 1.
"We will continue to keep an eye on the market and expect to update our forecast market milk price towards the end of May 2015".
