Yoplait UK bets big on high-protein and drinkable yogurts

Yoplait UK identifies high-protein yogurt as a significant growth area, with expectations for the market to exceed £700 million next year, growing at 25% year-on-year, according to General Manager Antoine Hours. The UK yogurt market, valued at £2.8 billion in 2024, has seen a rise in adult-focused yogurt sales by £177.5 million in value and 6% in volume over a year. Initially recognized for children’s brands like Petits Filous, Yoplait UK has tapped into the adult market's interest by launching Skyr in the UK, aligning with the high-protein, low-fat trend. Skyr's 1kg format is central to their strategy, focusing on new product development to drive sales and align with consumer habits, particularly at breakfast time. In light of stabilizing inflation, Yoplait is seeking to innovate with retailers and increase distribution, with a sharp focus on affordable kids' offerings despite costs and Brexit-related challenges.

A £2 million investment in Petit Filous highlights their commitment to improving kids' nutrition, aiming for significant sugar reductions. Yoplait UK is also venturing into the growing drinkable yogurt market, expected to reach £670 million within three years. Their Yop brand, adopting recyclable PET bottles, is pivoting towards convenience and efficiency in packaging. Antoine Hours, with his extensive experience at Danone and McDonald’s, aspires to transition Yoplait UK by strengthening its leadership in kids’ nutrition and unlocking growth through high-protein and drinkable formats, positioning the company to meet evolving consumer demands and sustainability trends.