A sustained increase in production and operational costs for Malta Dairy Products Ltd, the company that produces household staple Benna products, “has reached an unsustainable point”, causing the company to increase prices of its local fresh milk products by 15c.

“Over the past five years, Malta Dairy Products has been dedicated to maintaining stable prices for its fresh milk products despite facing escalating costs in supplies, raw materials, and services,” it said in a statement on Thursday morning.

“This commitment was made amidst challenges posed by economic fluctuations, as the company absorbed mounting expenses to prevent their direct impact on the selling price.”

“However, despite implementing various cost-saving measures, such as streamlining operations and optimising production processes, the significant increase in input costs has not been fully offset.”

“The sustained rise in production and operational costs has reached an unsustainable point for the company’s operations. After careful consideration, Malta Dairy Products finds it imperative to adjust prices accordingly to ensure the company’s sustainability while securing a favourable future for local farmers and its workers.”

It must be noted that Malta Dairy Products recommends consumer prices for its products, but it is up to each retail outlet to decide on the selling price of its products.