Danone Expands in APAC with Acquisition of MADE Group and Dairy Stake
Danone has announced its plan to acquire the Australian health food company MADE Group, along with the remaining 49% stake in its fresh dairy joint venture with Saputo Dairy Australia. These acquisitions are expected to be finalized in the second half of 2026. The deals are part of Danone’s strategy to strengthen its position in the fast-growing healthy nutrition sector across the Asia Pacific region.
The MADE Group, based in Melbourne, is known for its portfolio of high-protein ready-to-drink products, gut-health yoghurts, and coconut-based foods. The company operates in Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia and has consistently achieved double-digit growth in recent years. MADE Group's annual sales exceed €300 million, and Danone anticipates that the acquisition will enhance its operating margins and earnings per share from the first year.
In addition to acquiring MADE Group, Danone will take full control of its joint venture with Saputo Dairy Australia, which includes functional yoghurt brands such as YoPRO, Activia, and Ultimate. This move aligns with Danone’s Renew Strategy, which focuses on organic growth and targeted investments in health and nutrition categories.
Antoine de Saint-Affrique, CEO of Danone, emphasized the significance of these acquisitions in executing their Renew Strategy. He stated, “With its strong portfolio of brands and healthy nutritional products, focusing on gut health and protein, MADE shows an impressive track record of rapid and profitable growth.”
Amanda Butler, CEO of MADE Group, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “Led by our mantra of ‘making healthy happy’, we are proud to have built a portfolio of trusted brands and innovative products that consistently deliver better on nutrition, taste and quality.”
These acquisitions follow Danone’s earlier deals, including partnerships with Huel and acquisitions of biotics specialist Akkermansia and specialized nutrition company Kate Farms in 2025. The company aims to expand its Essential Dairy and Plant-Based business in the Asia Pacific region through these strategic moves.
