Raising Fodder Costs are Straining Cashflow on Farms

MEDIA RELEASE

Issued on behalf of Cultivate Credit Union

For immediate release: 28/08/2026

Cultivate urges farmers to review fodder and cashflow budgets now

Key point:

As a prolonged dry spell pushes up the cost of winter feed, Cultivate is encouraging farm families to review their fodder budget and cashflow plan now, and to talk to their local credit union early if they need support. With back-to-school costs, college fees, tax bills and contractor bills landing at the same time, a tailored, farmer friendly loan can spread the cost of bought-in feed and keep the farm on a steady footing through the winter ahead.

This year's dry spell has slowed grass growth dramatically in many parts of the country, particularly in parts of Leinster and Munster. Soil moisture deficits in these regions are impacting many farm families.

Start With the Budget!

Farm advisers are encouraging farmers to map out their cashflow for the rest of the year and into Spring 2027. Putting the cost of bought in feed into the figures now, alongside milk and stock receipts, scheme payments, loan repayments, tax, contractors and household drawings, gives farmers a clear picture for the coming months.

Having a budget that shows what’s coming down the line gives a farmer time to talk to their credit union early, to get ahead of a cashflow gap before demand and prices rise further, or to hold off on non-essential spending until the picture is clearer.

How Cultivate Can Help?

Cultivate finance is available from Premier Credit Union and offers tailored, farmer friendly loans designed to spread the cost of bought-in feed, so that repayments are matched to when the money comes into the farm account.

"Our advice is simple. Do the fodder and cashflow budget first, then come and talk to us. If the numbers show a challenge, we would far rather hear from you in August than in November. Borrowing is not the right answer for every farm, but for those who need to bridge a feed bill, come in and talk to us. We're very much open for business and want to support farm families today." Brian King, CEO of Premier Credit Union

Cultivate at a Glance

· Who it is for? Irish farmers facing additional feed and fodder costs this winter

· What does it offer? Tailored, farmer friendly loans with repayments matched to the farm's production cycle

· How to enquire? Contact your local credit union or visit www.cultivate-cu.ie

Note: Lending terms and conditions apply. All loans are subject to approval. Cultivate encourages farmers to review their fodder budget and cashflow plan before borrowing.

For further information:

See Premier Credit Union | Cultivate Agri Loan, or contact our offices at 050491700, or email us at info@premiercu.ie.