‘Ever-increasing costs’ see closure of popular County Down farm shop
A County Down farm shop has had to close its doors for the last time due to “ever-increasing costs”.
The Lilburn family opened the milk hut at Brookvale Farm in Dromore three years ago, growing it into a popular farm shop. However, in early November they announced they had made the “most difficult decision” to close the shop.
“Dairy farming has been part of our family for many generations but unfortunately it’s not quite what it used to be from a business sense,” the family announced in a social media post.
“We all know diversification is now key in the dairy industry but unfortunately the ever-increasing costs and demands still don’t quite match the ever-falling milk price.
“This has been the most difficult decision and not one we have taken lightly, but it has been our decision, as a family, no-one else’s.”
Issuing their thanks in the online post, the family thanked everyone who had supported them over the past three years.
“From the moment we opened the doors of our little milk hut, growing to our fabulous farm shop and opening Brookvale Farm up for visits, we have had the most overwhelming support.
“We have met so many wonderful customers and had amazing relations with local businesses, schools and playgroups. And so, it breaks our hearts to have to let you all know that the farm shop will be closing its doors for the final time on Sunday 5th November.
“Our amazing herd of milking ladies will be relocating to a new home in the near future and after that we’ll adapt to our new normal at Brookvale Farm with new opportunities, whatever they may be.”
