Gardalatte has reported extraordinary results in its 2024 financial statement, primarily due to the success of **Grana Padano**. During the assembly held on April 28 at the historic Rocca di Lonato, the cooperative members approved a budget that marks a record year for this significant entity in the Lombard dairy supply chain.
President Valter Giacomelli enthusiastically commented on the results achieved: “We thought we had already reached our peak in 2022, but 2024 has surpassed that.” This increase is attributed to the excellent performance of **Grana Padano**, the company’s flagship product, whose average price has risen by 11% compared to 2023. Investments in communication in foreign markets, made by the Protection Consortium, have indeed allowed for an increase in exports, which now account for over half of total sales.
### Increase in Milk Contributions and Sales
Throughout 2024, Gardalatte recorded a 3% increase in milk contributions, reaching **1,220 million quintals**. Of these, a remarkable **170 thousand quintals** were placed on the market, reflecting a 15% growth compared to the previous year. Although sales of raw materials decreased by 3%, internal processing increased by 4%. The majority of the processed milk (91%) was dedicated to the production of Grana Padano; the remainder was allocated to Provolone and butter.
### Economic Results and Payout to Members
The financial statement closes with a production value growth of **16%**, reaching **€93.4 million**. Thanks to these favorable economic results, the payout to members will amount to **€0.72 per liter**, which rises to **€0.792** including VAT. Giacomelli emphasized the strategic importance of cooperation within the dairy supply chain: “Figures never before reached in the history of our cooperative demonstrate how essential it is to be an active participant in this sector.”
### Investments for Sustainability
Gardalatte plans significant investments over the three-year period from 2024 to 2026, totaling **€10 million**. As one of the first companies funded by PNRR for projects aimed at environmental sustainability and improving working conditions, the company aims to increase processing in line with market demand. “There is no environmental sustainability without social and economic sustainability,” stated Giacomelli.
### Future Challenges
However, concerns remain regarding future challenges related to potential tariffs imposed by the U.S. government. Giacomelli warned that “we have entered a historical phase full of uncertainties” and highlighted the importance for the Italian dairy supply chain to strengthen itself through greater cohesion and collaboration.
The assembly thus highlighted not only the successes achieved but also the urgent need for those involved in dairy production to prepare to face global challenges while maintaining the high quality of their products, such as Grana Padano.
Italian Version
