Gokul milk distributors in Katraj, Bibvewadi threaten stir, demand commission hike

On Apr 29, 2022

Gokul milk distributors in Katraj, Bibvewadi threaten stir, demand commission hike — File photo

Pune: Policenama online – Milk distributors’ profit margins have reduced drastically following fuel price hikes and now a hike in Gokul milk prices. Hence, they have threatened to launch a stir in Katraj, Bibvewadi, Balaji Nagar, Dhankawadi area from April 30. They warned that they would not distribute Gokul milk in their respective areas.

The supply chain of packaged milk comprises, in that order, the farmer, the dairy, the chief distributor, sub-distributors and retailers. Then it is delivered to the customer. The commodity is transported in vehicles at every stage. The fuel price hikes have adversely affected profit margins of distributors and retailers. The milk manufacturers have not increased the commission for many years. The distribution cost has doubled while the commission has not increased for years. Distributors said they are merely carrying the burden of distributing milk. This is not the only issue they face. Leaked or spoiled milk pouches are not exchanged. The milk van does not arrive in time. Crates containing milk bags are stolen. The sub-distributors in Katraj, Dhankawadi, Balaji Nagar, Bibvewadi have been complaining about these issues to the dairy and the chief distributor. However, no solution is found.

Therefore, the sub-distributors have decided not to sell Gokul milk from April 30. Around 25,000 litres of Gokul milk is sold in these areas, said these distributors.

Gokul milk chief distributor Sanjay Dhere said, “It is a fact that the milk brand has not increased the commission of distributors for some years. We have demanded an increase in the commission with the board of directors of Gokul Dairy as the distribution cost is increasing following hikes in fuel prices. A BoD meeting is likely to take place today in Kolhapur. We expect a hike in commission from May 1. I have requested sub-distributors to have patience till then.”