The Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation, widely known as Milma, has been honoured with the Spice Coast Excellence Award, instituted by The Cochin Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Altacit Global. The award was presented in the Spice Coast Legacy Award category, recognising Milma's benchmark-setting performance in the dairy sector and its significant impact on the industry at large.
Milma Chairman K S Mani received the award on the sidelines of the Keralam Retail Conclave 2026, where the Spice Coast Excellence Awards 2026 were held. According to the source, Milma clocked a turnover of ₹4,344 crore during the financial year 2025-26. The cooperative has partnered with LuLu Group to ramp up its presence in the global arena. Additionally, Milma has plans to expand its market reach through major e-commerce platforms across India.
Milma's Business Model and Operations
The cooperative operates on a farmer-centric business model, directly disbursing 83 percent of the milk sale price to farmers. This high payout ratio is a key differentiator in the Indian dairy industry, ensuring stable income for milk producers. Milma, as the Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation, manages the entire dairy supply chain from procurement to processing and distribution.
Award Details
| Award | Organisation | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Spice Coast Excellence Award | The Cochin Chamber of Commerce & Industry & Altacit Global | Spice Coast Legacy Award |
The award was presented to Milma for its benchmark-setting performance in the dairy sector and the significant impact the brand has created in the industry at large.
Future Plans
Milma has outlined plans to strengthen its market presence via e-commerce platforms across India. The partnership with LuLu Group is expected to facilitate global expansion. The cooperative's focus on digital channels aligns with its strategy to reach more consumers while maintaining its farmer-first ethos.
Implications for Food Manufacturing
For manufacturing executives in the food processing sector, Milma's recognition highlights the importance of cooperative models in achieving scale and quality. The turnover of ₹4,344 crore demonstrates the viability of large-scale dairy processing operations with direct farmer linkages. The partnership with LuLu Group signals cross-border supply chain expansion, which could serve as a case study for other Indian food processors eyeing global markets.
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