Lactalis: A Global Dairy Powerhouse

Lactalis, with its headquarters in Laval, Mayenne, France, holds the distinction of being the largest dairy company globally. The company operates in more than 150 countries, supported by a robust network comprising 266 factories and employing 85,500 individuals worldwide.

Financial Performance

In 2024, Lactalis reported a revenue of €30.3 billion, despite a 19% decline in net profits attributable to a significant tax settlement in France. By 2025, the company's revenue increased to €31.2 billion, marking a 2.9% rise from the previous year. Lactalis was recognized as the largest dairy company with a turnover of €35.5 billion in 2025.

Important Company Events

Lactalis has been proactive in its global expansion, focusing on strategic acquisitions and investments. Notable expansions include boosting local employment in Colombia, acquiring BMI dairy assets in Southern Germany, and purchasing the Cremora creamer business from Nestlé to strengthen its presence in Africa. Significant acquisitions include General Mills' yogurt business in the United States and a €55.3 million investment in Brazil to enhance facilities in Paraná and Minas Gerais.

On May 5, 2025, Lactalis expanded its cheese manufacturing capabilities by acquiring Portugal's Queijos Tavares. Another major milestone was the $3.4 billion acquisition of Fonterra's Australian operations. Lactalis also acquired the Swedish probiotic brand ProViva to strategically broaden its product portfolio. In Paraguay, a subsidiary is driving double-digit growth by expanding industrial capacity, aiming to become a regional export hub. The launch of the Siggi’s skyr range in the UK was made to meet consumer demand for 'clean protein' products.

Company Plans

Lactalis continues to focus on global expansion, increased market penetration, and product diversification. The company emphasizes eco-friendly packaging innovations and the integration of AI and Big Data to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in Spain and Australia. Under the leadership of CEO Emmanuel Besnier and José Sáez, General Manager of Purchases and Supplies in Spain and Portugal, Lactalis pursues growth and innovation.

Future plans include not renewing its milk collection agreement with Luxembourg's Prolek cooperative after April 2027, ending a 40-year partnership. Lactalis also intends to expand its German dairy plant to significantly increase processing capacities by 2030. A commitment of €1 billion has been made to modernize domestic facilities in France, with a €200 million investment strategy from 2026 to 2030 to enhance operations.

Lactalis was involved in a milk cartel confirmed by the Spanish Supreme Court, which might lead to significant compensations for affected producers. In Czechia, an investment of €9 million is planned to improve its dessert production facility in Ostrava.

With a strong presence in Australia, Lactalis aims to expand into Southeast Asian markets, focusing on high-value dairy exports, fresh milk, and specialized yogurt lines. The company maintains partnerships with local dairy farming families and invests in processing infrastructure. Lactalis aims to solidify its status as the world's largest dairy processor, focusing on high-margin consumer categories and integrating regional supply chains.

The company has signed an agreement to acquire Saputo’s UK business, marking its fourth dairy deal in two months, expected to strengthen its position in the UK. As a diamond sponsor of the Milk Summit Mercosul 2026, Lactalis is actively involved in supporting the event at a high level. Additionally, Lactalis is the buyer of Fonterra's Mainland consumer business, with commercial arrangements proceeding as planned, including a purchase of $4.220 billion from Fonterra.

Lactalis won a significant Spanish court case over the use of 'fresh' for pasteurized horchata. The case involved Lactalis Puleva, who was challenged over the use of the word 'fresh' on their pasteurized horchata product.

Lactalis has combined its Australian operations with the Mainland Dairy consumer business acquired from Fonterra. The company said the move combines the Lactalis Australia and Lactalis-Mainland Dairy Australia teams under a single leadership structure. The French group’s brands include Jalna, Pauls, and Vaalia, and it ranks first in the Australian yoghurt market.