Lactalis: A Global Leader in the Dairy Industry

Headquartered in Laval, Mayenne, France, Lactalis stands as the world's largest dairy company. It operates an expansive network of over 260 factories, distributing a diverse array of dairy products across more than 90 countries.

Financial Performance

In 2024, Lactalis achieved a significant revenue milestone of €30.3 billion. Despite facing a 19% decline in net profits due to a substantial tax settlement in France, the company maintained its leadership position within the dairy industry.

Important Company Events

Lactalis has strategically expanded its global footprint through several key investments and acquisitions:

• Investments in Colombia aimed at boosting local employment and stimulating economic growth.
• Acquisition of BMI dairy assets in Southern Germany, strengthening its European presence.
• Purchase of the Cremora creamer business from Nestlé, extending its market reach in Africa.
• Acquisition of General Mills' U.S. yogurt business in North America.
• A €55.3 million investment in Brazil to enhance facilities in Paraná and Minas Gerais.
• On May 5, 2025, acquisition of Portugal's Queijos Tavares to boost cheese manufacturing capabilities.
• A $3.4 billion acquisition of Fonterra's Australian operations, marking a significant milestone in Oceania.
• Acquisition of ProViva, a Swedish probiotic brand, for strategic expansion.

Company Plans

Lactalis is committed to global expansion, increased market penetration, and product diversification. The company is focusing on eco-friendly packaging innovations and integrating 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.

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. The company is enhancing its high-protein dairy product line to meet the rising global demand for functional and value-added products.

Lactalis acquired Fonterra's Mainland business, part of a transaction valued at $4.22 billion. Lactalis is the largest player in the global dairy industry and continues to pursue acquisitions, including the purchase of Fonterra's Mainland Group for $4.22 billion, expected to complete by March 2026. Lactalis has completed major acquisitions in the New Zealand dairy industry as part of its broader strategy to strengthen its position in the global dairy market.

Modified: 2026/04/02