DAIRY
awards

DAIRY STUDENT AWARD

The Dairy Student of the Year Award, sponsored by ForFarmers, runs annually, with applications typically opening in late summer and closing in November. Judging takes place in December, and the winner is announced at Dairy-Tech in February.

This prestigious competition is open to students studying at agricultural colleges and universities across the UK.

Designed to reflect the real-world challenges facing the dairy industry, the award tests students on their ability to think critically about farm management, policy, sustainability and business performance. Highly regarded by industry professionals and prospective employers, it provides an excellent opportunity to showcase knowledge, ambition and passion for the dairy sector.

Entrants are required to complete a case study business appraisal. From these submissions, judges will shortlist finalists who will be invited to deliver a 15-minute presentation to an expert panel at The Farmers Club, London. Each entry must be accompanied by a nomination form completed by the student’s course leader.

The winner receives a £750 cash prize.

PREVIOUS WINNERS

The Dairy Student of the Year Award has recognised outstanding agricultural students from across the UK, many of whom have gone on to successful careers within the dairy industry.

2026

Winner: Henry Gibson, Harper Adams University Runner-up: Caitlin Jugg, University of Surrey

2025

Winner: Matthew Butterfield, Harper Adams University Runner-up: Frances Maxwell, University of Nottingham

ROYAL DAIRY INNOVATION AWARD

The Royal Dairy Innovation Award recognises products and services that deliver the most significant innovation for the dairy sector. Presented to a company exhibiting at Dairy-Tech, the award highlights solutions that make a real difference to dairy businesses. The award is presented by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

HOW THE AWARD WORKS

Entries are judged by an independent panel of experts with experience in farming, research, education, and commercial application. Judges evaluate:

Practical impact – benefits to dairy producers in real-world conditions
Innovation – new ideas, systems, or approaches improving efficiency, sustainability, or profitability
Presentation – clarity in communicating the benefits
Supporting evidence – documentation, trials, or demonstrations showing effectiveness

A shortlist of finalists is invited to present or demonstrate their product at Dairy-Tech, with the winner announced at the event.

WHEN TO ENTER

Entries open each September. Check back for the 2027 entry form and full submission details.

2026 Winner: Arkaya Energy – Milk Source Heat Pump

The 2026 award was won by Arkaya Energy for its Milk Source Heat Pump, a one-stop solution delivering:

Milk cooling to 4°C
Hot water up to 90°C for wash-downs
Improved energy efficiency, reducing electricity use and carbon footprint

By recovering heat from the milk cooling process, the system helps dairy businesses save time, energy, and money.

The award was judged and announced at Dairy-Tech 2026, held at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. Competition judge and RABDF Council Member Tim Downes said Arkaya Energy stood out for its strong presentation and clear, proven benefits to the dairy industry.

Dairy Industry Woman of the Year Award

Do you, or someone you know ….

Connect well with the industry and the public?
Actively share experiences and knowledge?
Inspire others?

If so, why not nominate yourself or someone you know for the Dairy Industry Woman of the Year Award?

Women in Dairy are delighted to announce the return of the Dairy Industry Woman of the Year. This award aims to celebrate the achievements of women in the British dairy industry.

We’re looking for someone who demonstrates the Women in Dairy values of connect, share, inspire.

For example:

Connect through social media, local discussion groups or with the public on Open Farm Sunday or local schools.
Share experience with younger generation, someone from another part of the industry, or an apprentice,
Inspire others with their positivity or attitude or to try something new.

Many thanks to HSBC for their continued support of the Women in Dairy Woman of the Year Award.

How to nominate

To nominate someone, please complete the form below or download a form and return to Jessica Madge at RABDF by email to womenindairy@rabdf.co.uk.

Download a nomination form

Closing date for nominations is 24th July 2026.

All finalists will be invited to attend the cream awards and will receive free tickets to attend.

THE PRINCESS ROYAL AWARD

The Princess Royal Award is one of the highest accolades within the UK dairy industry. It is presented annually to an individual who has made an outstanding lifetime contribution to the sector.

The award recognises leaders whose dedication, innovation, and influence have made a lasting impact on dairy farming, education, research, or industry development.