Lactalis: A Global Leader in the Dairy Industry

Location: Laval, Mayenne, France

Lactalis stands as the largest dairy company globally, managing an expansive network of over 260 factories that distribute a diverse range of dairy products to more than 90 countries. This extensive reach underscores its leadership in the global dairy market.

Financial Performance

In 2024, Lactalis achieved a significant revenue milestone of €30.3 billion. Despite a 19% decline in net profits, attributed to a major tax settlement in France, the company demonstrated financial resilience and maintained its leading position in the dairy industry.

Important Company Events

• Colombian Expansion: Investments in Colombia have strengthened local employment and contributed to regional economic growth.
• Southern Germany Acquisition: Acquiring BMI dairy assets has enhanced Lactalis' European footprint.
• South African Ventures: The acquisition of the Cremora creamer business from Nestlé has extended its market reach in Africa.
• U.S. Market Expansion: The acquisition of General Mills' U.S. yogurt business has reinforced its operations in North America.
• Investment in Brazil: An investment of €55.3 million was made to upgrade facilities in Paraná and Minas Gerais.
• Queijos Tavares Acquisition: On May 5, 2025, Lactalis enhanced its cheese manufacturing capacity by acquiring Portugal's Queijos Tavares.
• Fonterra Acquisition: The $3.4 billion acquisition of Fonterra's Australian operations marked a significant milestone, strengthening Lactalis' presence in Oceania.
• Strategic Expansions: The acquisition of ProViva, a Swedish probiotic brand, signifies another strategic expansion.

Company Plans

Lactalis is committed to global expansion, increased market penetration, and product diversification. The company focuses on eco-friendly packaging innovations and the integration of AI and Big Data to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in Spain and Australia. The intention to acquire Fonterra's assets further underscores its commitment to strengthening its global footprint.

Leadership

Under the leadership of CEO Emmanuel Besnier, Lactalis aims for continuous growth. José Sáez, serving as General Manager of Purchases and Supplies in Spain and Portugal, plays a pivotal role in strategic decisions, such as reducing French milk processing by 450 million liters to focus on higher-margin products like cheese and yogurt.

Recent Developments

Recent developments include the closure of the South Brisbane factory, part of the Parmalat network, following the acquisition of Fonterra. In collaboration with Bioiberica, Lactalis Spain launched Puleva Vita Calcio Colágeno, a new milk beverage enriched with native type II collagen. Additionally, Lactalis has initiated a recall of six batches of its Picot infant formula due to the detection of cereulide toxin and is working closely with authorities to manage the situation. Along with Danone and Nestlé, Lactalis faces regulatory pressure regarding an infant formula contamination scandal. The company is set to finalize the sale of its global consumer businesses with Fonterra within two months, marking a substantial investment in New Zealand's dairy market.

In Paraguay, a subsidiary of Lactalis is driving double-digit growth by expanding its industrial capacity and aiming to become a regional export hub. The company focuses on healthy dairy products and plans to enhance facilities to boost exports across the region, investing in local infrastructure, workforce, and training programs to support its operations. Lactalis has also partnered with Bioiberica to create a unique collagen milk drink specifically for the Spanish market, marking a significant step in the functional dairy segment.

Modified: 2026/03/13