Ehrmann Cornish Dairy tackles waste with switch from plastic bottles

Ehrmann Cornish Dairy, home to the Trewithen brand, has taken a bold step against plastic waste, announcing it will switch three of its fresh cream products from traditional HDPE plastic bottles to beverage cartons. In partnership with Elopak, the dairy has installed a new filling line for Pure-Pak® cartons at its Glynn Valley site. This is part of a significant investment following its recent acquisition by the Ehrmann Group.

The fresh Cornish whipping cream, double cream and buttermilk is available this autumn in 300, 500 and 1000 ml Pure-Pak® cartons. This strategic move has already secured listings for Trewithen in Tesco supermarkets across the UK, marking a breakthrough for the local favourite.

Ehrmann acquisition drives sustainability ambitions

Third generation family owned Ehrmann, renowned for over a century of dairy innovation, has acquired Trewithen, providing a launchpad for its branded desserts into the British market. The ongoing investment in the Cornish facility, set to wrap up in 2026, will also help drive Ehrmann Cornish Dairy’s green ambitions.

“We are continually reviewing our packaging usage, reducing waste and reviewing all types of packaging,” said Mark Moody, Marketing Director for Trewithen Dairy and Ehrmann UK. “We have set out further targets in our five-year strategy to reduce waste and energy consumption. This includes ensuring our people are further trained and the culture of the business aligns to our sustainability goals.

“However, changing consumer habits is not without its challenges adds Mark Moody. “Encouraging consumers to switch packaging formats can be challenging, as shopping habits are often deeply rooted. Yet, by introducing Pure-Pak® cartons to our market, we’re offering more than just reduced plastic waste. These cartons deliver practical everyday advantages and less waste.”

A milestone for award-winning Cornish quality

The introduction of Pure-Pak® cartons, replacing plastic packaging, is a major milestone for Trewithen products, which are all made exclusively from 100% Cornish Milk, sourced from regional family farms. Six of the farms that supply milk to the dairy are forefront of regenerative farming practices.

Regenerative farming, an approach gaining momentum, focuses on enhancing soil health, biodiversity, water cycles, and overall ecosystem resilience. Mark Moody added. “These farms are leading the way in regenerative farming, for which we proudly achieved second place in the carbon positive category at the Cornwall Sustainability Awards.”

The first product launched is the Trewithen Cornish Double Cream in 300ml cartons, available in 500 Tesco stores nationally, plus in regional stores from early November 2025.