What Would Synlait Be Worth to Fonterra or a2 Milk?
Speculation of a possible joint move by Fonterra and a2 Milk to buy Synlait raises a much bigger strategic question, says agribusiness expert Dr Nic Lees.
And it seems interest is strong across the ditch, not surprising when Fonterra Oceania owns some of Australia and New Zealand’s top milk, cheese and dairy dessert brands.
Bega Cheese last week informed the market that it was making a bid for Fonterra’s Oceania business. French company Lactalis has also confirmed that its Australian business unit is in the hunt for Fonterra Oceania.
And media reports say A2 Milk, with around $1 billion cash reserves, is eyeing manufacturing assets in New Zealand.
