While the group had first decided to buy the plot last June, it was subject to the approval of the construction permit. Now, permit in hand, the entire project is on its way to becoming a reality.

The dairy collective’s shop will remain in the village at its current location on Lauenenstrasse. The fate of the portion of the building that will be vacated after the facilities move is yet undecided. Ideas include using it for storage or even rental apartments. 

 

Milking them for all they’re worth

With a budget of 9.1 million francs, the cooperative will take over the “Chräwel” parcel in Gstaad. The existing structure will be levelled, and a new, three-storey production and storage building will take its place. 

“The costs are realistic,” states René Ryser, Director of the Molkerei. “The dairy area, where milk is made into cheese in various stages, is the most expensive part of the operation. Luckily we can move this area directly to the new facilities.”

Funding for the project comes not only from the cooperative itself; public funds are necessary. The Municipality of Saanen has pledged 160,000 francs but only under certain conditions. To benefit, the project must gain federal and cantonal support as well. 

“Talks with the Foundation for Agricultural Credit are in the works,” says Ryser. “We are also speaking to three banks.” 

 

The Molkerei’s cash cow

Despite the stability of milk prices last year, a six percent-decline was noted for the financial year 2012-2013. The -decline in profits was, among other things, attributed to the changing structure of the cooperative. Last year the Gstaad dairy took over the Saanen dairy, which came at an additional cost and increased expenses. However, this year there is no such collaboration.

 

In other administrative news, Board Members Roland Zahler and Alfred Haldi retired but a decision was made not to replace them. This reduces the board from seven to five members. The Executive Board currently includes President Jürg Romang, Vice-Chairman Daniel Hauswirth, Secretary Hansueli Müllener, and Assesors Beat Walker and George Reichenbach.