Lactalis: A Global Dairy Powerhouse

Lactalis, with its headquarters in Laval, Mayenne, France, stands as the world’s largest dairy company. It boasts a significant presence in the global dairy market, operating over 260 factories worldwide and distributing a diverse array of dairy products across more than 90 countries.

Financial Performance

In 2024, Lactalis achieved a revenue milestone of €30.3 billion. Despite a 19% decline in net profits due to a substantial tax settlement in France, the company maintained its leadership position within the industry. By 2025, Lactalis saw revenues increase to €31.2 billion, marking a 2.9% growth from the previous year.

Important Company Events

Lactalis has been actively involved in multiple strategic acquisitions and expansions to fortify its market position:

• Investments in Colombia to boost local employment and stimulate economic growth.
• Acquisition of BMI dairy assets in Southern Germany to strengthen 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.
• 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.
• Lactalis 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.
• Lactalis has partnered with Bioiberica to create a unique collagen milk drink specifically for the Spanish market.
• 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, expected to complete by March 2026.
• Lactalis has issued a warning that energy costs driven by conflicts could lead to increased global dairy prices.
• Lactalis is launching its Siggi’s skyr range in the UK, targeting the increasing consumer demand for 'clean protein' products.

Company Plans

Lactalis is focused on global expansion, increased market penetration, and product diversification. The company is prioritizing eco-friendly packaging innovations and integrating AI and Big Data to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in Spain and Australia.

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.

Lactalis will not renew its milk collection agreement with Luxembourg's Prolek cooperative after April 2027, ending its 40-year partnership due to challenging conditions in the international dairy ingredient markets. The company plans to maintain the unique identity of the Protein Works brand, combining forces with Protein Works’ expertise in functional nutrition and direct-to-consumer capabilities. As a global dairy company, Lactalis employs 85,000 people worldwide with a turnover of over €31 billion annually.

Modified: 2026/06/02