Exhibiting at Thaifex - Anuga Asia 2025

Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin (DFW) is a leading non-profit marketing board representing Wisconsin’s dairy farming community. Established to support and promote the state’s dairy industry both domestically and internationally, DFW plays a crucial role in positioning Wisconsin as a global dairy leader, especially in premium cheese production and export.

Company Overview

Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin operates under the oversight of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. It is funded by Wisconsin’s dairy farm families through mandatory checkoff contributions, with a mission to increase the demand for Wisconsin dairy products.

Wisconsin is known as “America’s Dairyland,” and DFW is its chief ambassador, actively connecting local dairy processors with international markets while promoting the integrity, innovation, and tradition that define Wisconsin dairy.

Core Business Activities

Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin focuses on:

• Marketing and Brand Development for Wisconsin Cheese and Dairy worldwide
• Export Promotion and International Trade Relations
• Consumer Education and Retail Partnership Campaigns
• Support for over 6,000 Dairy Farms and 600+ Dairy Plants

The organization does not directly sell products but acts as a marketing force for dairy producers and processors under the “Proudly Wisconsin Cheese” and “Proudly Wisconsin Dairy” labels.

Product & Service Promotion

DFW promotes a wide array of dairy products under Wisconsin’s collective brands:

• Cheese
  • Cheddar, Mozzarella, Swiss, Gouda, Blue Cheese
• Butter
  • Salted and Unsalted Butter varieties
• Milk
  • Whole, 2%, Skim
• Yogurt
  • Plain, Greek, Flavored
• Ice Cream
  • Premium varieties including Vanilla, Chocolate, and Fruit flavors

These products are manufactured by over 600 licensed cheesemakers, more than anywhere else in the U.S., and include 100+ Master Cheesemakers, a designation exclusive to Wisconsin.

Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Wisconsin is the only U.S. state with a Master Cheesemaker program, modeled after European systems. This rigorous three-year training elevates product quality and craftsmanship.

Key USPs include:

• Proudly Wisconsin Cheese & Dairy Certification
• High milk quality from grass-fed herds
• Innovation in specialty cheeses, with over 600 varieties produced
• First U.S. state to grade cheese for flavor, body, and texture

Financial Impact

While Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is a non-profit, its economic impact is substantial:

• Dairy industry generates over USD 45.6 billion annually in Wisconsin’s economy (2024 data).
• Wisconsin produces over 3.4 billion pounds of cheese annually, representing more than 25% of U.S. cheese output.
• Over 90% of Wisconsin milk is used in cheese production.

DFW-supported initiatives contributed to a 15% growth in Wisconsin cheese exports from 2022 to 2024, particularly to markets such as Japan, Canada, Mexico, and South Korea.

Export & Shipment Records

Export data (2023-2024):

• Wisconsin exported over $600 million in dairy products in 2023.
• Top export categories: Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Whey Protein Concentrates
• Major export regions: Asia-Pacific, North America, Middle East

DFW partners with USDA Foreign Agricultural Service and other global trade bodies to expand market access.

Target Markets

DFW targets:

• Importers and Distributors in high-growth dairy markets
• Retail Chains and Foodservice Distributors globally
• Cheese mongers and artisan retailers focused on premium offerings
• Government and institutional buyers through trade missions and pavilions

Capabilities

• Comprehensive international trade support for exporters
• Custom product matchmaking via online exporter directory
• Participation in major trade fairs: Anuga, SIAL, Gulfood, and others
• Robust multimedia content and education campaigns to build global awareness

Certifications & Compliance

Wisconsin dairy producers meet or exceed international standards for food safety and sustainability. Key compliance credentials include:

• USDA Export Verification Program
• Safe Quality Food (SQF) Certified Plants
• Certified BRCGS and HACCP Compliant Facilities
• Grade A Dairy Certification

Additionally, the Master Cheesemaker program ensures a quality tier unmatched in the U.S. dairy sector.

Customer Testimonials

While DFW does not sell products directly, retail partners have testified to the strength of the Wisconsin brand:

• “Wisconsin cheeses consistently outperform competitors in flavor and quality.” — Premium U.S. Retailer
• “Our customers love the story and craftsmanship behind Wisconsin Dairy.” — Importer, Japan

Achievements

• Over 6,500 awards won by Wisconsin cheesemakers in national and international contests
• Home to 100+ Certified Master Cheesemakers, the only such program in the U.S.
• Named the Top U.S. Dairy Export State for cheese (USDA, 2023)
• Created the Wisconsin Cheese Export Resource Center to aid exporters

By championing its cheesemakers and producers, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin continues to elevate Wisconsin dairy on the world stage—offering unmatched quality, heritage, and innovation.