2 min read - 8 Jun, 2026
Lakeland Dairies announces £24.5m expansion investment
Lakeland Dairies is investing £24.5m in its Ballyrashane site in Northern Ireland, in a move aimed at strengthening the company’s manufacturing base and supporting future growth in key export markets.
The investment will expand production capacity through significant upgrades to its liquid milk packing and butter production facilities. The project will also include further sustainability-focused improvements across its operations, delivering wider environmental benefits and enhancing the site’s energy performance.
Invest NI has offered LacPatrick Dairies, part of Lakeland Dairies, £2.5m towards the investment through its Agri-Food Investment Initiative (AFII).
Pictured (L-R) are Kieran Donoghue, CEO, Invest NI; Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Minister for the Economy; and Colin Kelly, CEO, Lakeland Dairies / Picture: Invest NI
Colin Kelly, CEO of Lakeland Dairies, said: “This significant investment in our Ballyrashane site reflects our commitment to the future and our ambition to grow in both domestic and international markets. The programme will expand capacity in liquid milk packing and butter production, and will support new product development, allowing us to meet growing demand in export markets.”
Following a visit to the company’s premises, Dr Caoimhe Archibald, economy minister, added: “Lakeland Dairies has been an important part of our food and drink industry in the north for many years. This significant investment demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to its business in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
“It supports the continued development of the agri-food sector, strengthens export capability and includes important investment in sustainability. It will also help improve productivity within the business and contribute to better regional balance by supporting growth and opportunity in this area.”
