Oz dairy in consolidation mode
The Australian dairy industry is heading for more consolidation as milk supply shrinks, according to dairy analyst Steve Spencer.
Canadian dairy company Saputo says its acquisition of Murray Goulburn will add to and complement the activities of its dairy division in Australia.
“By acquiring a well-established industry player, the company reinforces its commitment to strengthen its presence in the Australian market,” it says.
Saputo says it intends to continue to invest in its Australian platform and contribute to the ongoing development of its domestic and international business.
Saputo bought Warrnambool Cheese and Butter in 2014.
The sale includes all of MG’s assets and operating liabilities and is subject to approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Saputo expects the transaction to close in the first half of next year.
MG produces a full range of high-quality dairy foods, including drinking milk, milk powder, cheese, butter and dairy beverages, as well as a range of ingredient and nutritional products, such as infant formula.
It supplies the retail and foodservice industries globally with its flagship Devondale, Liddells and Murray Goulburn Ingredients brands. Murray Goulburn has approximately 2,300 employees and operates eleven manufacturing facilities across Australia and China.
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