Dutch dairy products manufacturer Royal A-ware has acquired its Belgian competitor The Dairy Food Group, in a bit to continue its expansion in Belgium – deliberately challenging big names such as Milcobel and FrieslandCampina.
Ten times larger
Two years ago, Royal A-ware announced its ambition to become a major player in Belgium. Since then, it has acquired the milk powder towers of FrieslandCampina, the bankrupt Hollebeekhoeve and the dairy producer Olympia.
The Dairy Food Group adds 300 million euros in turnover and four additional plants to Royal A-ware’s figures. The family business manufactures private label dairy products for supermarkets, including cottage cheese, protein shakes, (whipped) cream and desserts.
Royal A-ware generates sales of 3.3 billion euros and employs 4,000 people. The company is Albert Heijn’s main supplier of milk and cheese. In Spain, A-ware acquired a mozzarella factory from Danone last year.