Lactalis: A Global Dairy Leader

Headquartered in Laval, Mayenne, France, Lactalis stands as the world’s largest dairy company, distributing a diverse array of dairy products across more than 90 countries. With over 260 factories worldwide, Lactalis has established a significant presence in the global dairy market.

Financial Performance

In 2024, Lactalis reached 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. By 2025, Lactalis achieved revenues of €31.2 billion, marking a 2.9% increase from the previous year.

Important Company Events

• 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.

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.

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

• 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, 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, 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.

Modified: 2026/05/13