PlanetDairy Acquires Stockeld's Technology to Enhance Hybrid Dairy Products

PlanetDairy, a Danish startup specializing in hybrid dairy products, has acquired key equipment and technological expertise from the defunct alt-cheese producer Stockeld Dreamery. This strategic acquisition aims to accelerate PlanetDairy’s research and development processes, leveraging Stockeld’s substantial R&D investment over the past five to six years in plant ingredients and fermentation.

The acquisition's strategic goal is to enhance PlanetDairy’s product offerings by bridging the gap between the superior taste of traditional dairy and the lower environmental impact of plant-based substitutes. Jakob Skovgaard, co-founder and CEO, highlighted that pure plant-based products have struggled to transition from niche to mainstream, presenting an opportunity for hybrid blends.

PlanetDairy aims to expand its market reach by targeting industrial customers, such as pizza manufacturers and other high-volume users of cheese and fresh dairy. Skovgaard stated that sustainability is not the primary purchasing driver for consumers, indicating that marketing should focus on dairy benefits like taste and nutrition.

PlanetDairy’s previous market efforts show the challenges within the hybrid dairy category. Partnerships with major players like Kerry Group, which launched the Smug brand in the UK, faced difficulties, with initial lines being discontinued before a planned relaunch. Similar challenges were encountered by other companies like Arla Foods and Dairy Farmers of America.