Sector information: dairy farm

There are different types of dairy farms, varying based on factors such as business size, management, livestock and production methods. Here are some of the most common types of dairy farms:

• Traditional dairy farms: These are often family farms where cows are kept for milk production. Cows graze in pastures and are milked in the morning and evening.
• Grazing dairy farms: These businesses focus on grazing cows in pastures and have a strong emphasis on grassland management and sustainability. Cows are primarily fed grass and hay.
• Intensive dairy farms: These are larger businesses where the cows are often housed in stalls. They are fed a combination of hay, grass, concentrates and supplements to maximize milk production.
• Organic dairy farms: These businesses follow organic farming principles, where cows are kept in a natural and animal-friendly way. They receive organically grown feed and are not treated with synthetic chemicals.
• Robotic dairy farms: These modern businesses use automated milking systems, where cows can choose when they want to be milked by going to a milking robot.
• Smaller dairy farms: Small-scale businesses focus on manageable herds and may specialize in niche markets, such as organic milk production or artisan dairy products.
• Pasture-based dairy farms: These businesses emphasize keeping cows on natural pastures and minimal nutrient and drug interference.
• Breeding and breeding farms: Some dairy farms specialize in breeding high-quality dairy breeds for both dairy production and the sale of breeding cattle.
• Value-added dairy farms: These businesses not only produce milk, but also process their milk into products such as cheese, butter, yogurt and ice cream.
• Sustainable dairy farms: These businesses emphasize sustainable practices, such as reducing the environmental impact of milk production, minimizing waste and promoting biodiversity.

What to look out for when buying a dairy farm

Acquiring a dairy farm is a complex and strategic decision that requires thorough research and planning. Here are some important aspects to consider when taking over a dairy farm:

• Farm performance and finances: Conduct an in-depth analysis of the financial health of the business. Examine the income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statements and other financial documents to understand performance and profitability.
• Milk production and herd: Understand the business' milk production capacity and herd quality. Check the genetics, health, age and performance of the cows.
• Farm size and scale: Determine the size of the dairy farm, whether it is a small-scale family farm or a larger operational enterprise. Make sure the scale matches your goals and resources.
• Livestock Management: Examine how livestock management is carried out. This includes nutrition, health care, breeding programs and reproductive strategies.
• Milking plants and equipment: Assess the condition of milking plants, milking equipment, milking parlors or milking robots. Make sure the equipment is functioning properly and meets the requirements of milk production.
• Land and pasture management: Check availability and quality of pasture for grazing, if applicable. Good pasture management is essential for a healthy herd.
• Nutrition and Health Management: Understand nutrition and health management of cows, including feeding schedules, veterinary care and preventive health measures.
• Milk processing options: If you plan to process milk into dairy products, research on-farm processing capabilities and infrastructure.
• Environmental and sustainability factors: Assess the business' environmental impact and commitment to sustainability practices such as waste management, water use and energy efficiency.
• Regulations and permits: Check that the business complies with all local and national regulations regarding animal health, environmental regulations and other relevant permits.
• Future growth opportunities: Identify potential growth opportunities, such as increasing herd size, improving milk production, diversifying dairy products or implementing sustainable practices.