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Tag: dairy

  • From MyMilk Founder to Fonterra CEO: Richard Allen to Guide Dairy Giant Towards Strategic Transition

    From MyMilk Founder to Fonterra CEO: Richard Allen to Guide Dairy Giant Towards Strategic Transition

    Fonterra, the world’s foremost dairy exporter, has concluded its internal hunt for a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) by naming the veteran employee, Richard Allen, as successor.

    Richard Allen: The New CEO of Fonterra

    Richard Allen, who started his career path at Fonterra as a graduate in 2008, has recently held the position of president of global ingredients. His promotion comes in the aftermath of Miles Hurrell’s resignation in December of the previous year.

    Peter McBride, the Chairman of Fonterra, expressed the board’s satisfaction with the appointment. He emphasised that Allen is primed to steer Fonterra into the next stage of its strategic execution.

    During his tenure at Fonterra, Allen has accumulated a diverse portfolio of experiences. He managed Farm Source, the company’s farmer-oriented business, for five years and operated in China as the vice president of the food service sector. Further, Allen was the initial CEO of MyMilk, and more recently, he functioned as the president of Atlantic, located in Chicago. In this role, Allen was responsible for managing relationships with several of Fonterra’s crucial global clients.

    Transition and Future Plans

    On May 1, Allen will assume his new role as CEO. Hurrell will remain with Fonterra as an advisor until September, ensuring a smooth transition.

    Allen expressed his anticipation for his new appointment, acknowledging the significant impact Fonterra has not only on farmers in New Zealand but also on its international customer base. He pledged his commitment to maintaining the positive trajectory in company performance, the focused execution of strategy, and the financial discipline fostered over recent years.

    Questions & Answers

    When did Richard Allen start his career at Fonterra?
    Richard Allen joined Fonterra in 2008 as a graduate.

    What are some of the roles Richard Allen has held at Fonterra?
    Allen has held various positions during his tenure at Fonterra, including leading the farmer-facing business Farm Source, serving as vice president of the foodservice business in China, being the founding CEO of MyMilk, and most recently, acting as president of Atlantic in Chicago.

    When will Richard Allen officially assume his new role as CEO of Fonterra?
    Richard Allen will commence his role as the CEO of Fonterra on May 1.

  • Sweet Fusion: Mondelez Unveils New Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Blend, Takes Australia By Storm

    Sweet Fusion: Mondelez Unveils New Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Blend, Takes Australia By Storm

    Mondelez International has recently unveiled its latest offering, Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff, in a collaborative endeavour with Lotus Bakeries. This unique product presents a delightful blend of Cadbury Dairy Milk’s creaminess and the distinct crunchiness of Lotus Biscoff’s caramelised biscuit.

    Early Success

    The novel fusion of the two popular treats has generated significant consumer interest. Indeed, the much-anticipated product’s early success has seen the shelves of stores nationwide quickly clearing of the tasty chocolate blocks. Katrina Watson, a representative from Mondelez International, attests to the impressive reception of Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff.

    Local Production

    Mondelez International is proud to produce this unique chocolate variety right in Tasmania. The company further supports local Australian businesses by sourcing the sugar used in the chocolate bars from growers in Queensland. This commitment to local suppliers underscores Mondelez’s dedication to supporting and uplifting local communities.

    Where to Buy Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff

    Fans of Cadbury and Biscoff can find the Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff block, weighing 170g, in major retail outlets. If you’re looking for a smaller indulgence, a 70g bar is also available in convenience stores across Australia.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff?
    Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff is a new product launched by Mondelez International. It is a mixture of Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate and Lotus Biscoff caramelised biscuit.

    Where is Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff produced?
    Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff is produced in Tasmania, Australia. The sugar used in its production is sourced from Queensland growers.

    Where can I buy Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff?
    The Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff block can be found in major retail stores, while a smaller 70g bar is available in convenience stores across Australia.

  • New Zealand Dairy Farmers Rejoice: Global Demand Triggers a 6.3% Surge in Dairy Prices

    New Zealand Dairy Farmers Rejoice: Global Demand Triggers a 6.3% Surge in Dairy Prices

    Cattle farmers in New Zealand have been given a much-needed boost as the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) announced a rise in pricing in its most recent index.

    On the 6th of January, the GDT conducted its latest auction, which resulted in dairy prices experiencing a 6.3% surge. Leading the pack were whole milk prices, which showed a 7.2% jump. This was followed by skim milk, which increased by 5.4%, and finally, butter, which saw a 3.8% upturn.

    After reaching a peak in early March of 2025, dairy prices had been on a steady decline. The current upward trend is a response to an increase in demand, according to the GDT.

    The GDT holds its sales events bi-monthly, attracting an international pool of bidders. These events are an opportunity for the GDT to implement its ‘price discovery process’. This complex mechanism calculates accurate price levels for global dairy products by considering factors such as supply, demand, and bidding.

    New Zealand’s primary export remains dairy products. The country’s largest dairy markets are China, Australia, and the United States.

    Questions & Answers

    How much did dairy prices increase in the latest GDT auction?
    Dairy prices rose by 6.3% in the most recent GDT auction. Whole milk saw the largest increase with a 7.2% surge, followed by skim milk at 5.4% and butter at 3.8%.

    What is the ‘price discovery process’ implemented by the GDT?
    The ‘price discovery process’ is a sophisticated system used by the GDT to determine accurate price levels for the world’s dairy products. It takes into account factors like supply, demand, and bidding.

    What are New Zealand’s largest dairy export markets?
    New Zealand’s most substantial dairy export markets are China, Australia, and the United States.

  • Kingland Debuts Indulgent Dairy-Free Yoghurt in Hong Kong: A Major Move in Asia-Pacific Expansion

    Kingland Debuts Indulgent Dairy-Free Yoghurt in Hong Kong: A Major Move in Asia-Pacific Expansion

    The Kingland Dairy Free Yogurt range has been introduced in Hong Kong by Australian plant-based food manufacturer, King International. This launch signifies a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy within the Asia-Pacific region.

    The Kingland Dairy Free Yogurt range, available in two sizes, can now be found in selected upscale and mainstream retail stores, such as Oliver’s The Delicatessen, Market Place, 3hreeSixty and Wellcome.

    The company offers its Greek Style range in 500g tubs with a variety of flavors including Natural, Mango & Peach, and Apple Cinnamon. Additionally, the Fruit Yogurt range comes in 250g single-serve pots featuring Mango & Peach, and Strawberry flavors.

    Eric Hsu, co-founder and managing director of King International, expressed his joy in launching the dairy-free yogurt in Hong Kong. He described Hong Kong as a dynamic city that perfectly blends tradition and modernity. Hsu emphasized that their products are crafted to offer indulgence without sacrificing nutrition, sustainability, or inclusivity for all lifestyles. He expressed confidence that the quality and consideration put into every pot of Kingland yogurt will appeal to consumers in Hong Kong.

    In terms of health claims, King International stated that all products have a minimum 4.5 Health Star Rating, as per the Health Star Rating System of the Australian and New Zealand governments. This rating reinforces the brand’s health-focused positioning and supports consumer trust in the product.

    King International was established in Queensland in 1987 by Eric and Rachel Hsu. Over the years, the company has transitioned from a local tofu producer to a supplier of plant-based foods throughout Australasia and the Asia-Pacific.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the Kingland Dairy Free Yogurt range launch in Hong Kong?
    The launch is a crucial step in King International’s expansion strategy within the Asia-Pacific region.

    What variety does the Kingland Dairy Free Yogurt range offer?
    The Greek Style range comes in 500g tubs in Natural, Mango & Peach, and Apple Cinnamon flavors, while the Fruit Yogurt range is offered in 250g single-serve pots in Mango & Peach and Strawberry flavors.

    What is King International’s health rating for their products?
    All products by King International carry a minimum 4.5 Health Star Rating as per the Health Star Rating System of the Australian and New Zealand governments, supporting the brand’s health positioning.

  • Lactalis Australia Enriches Pauls Dairy Line with Double Espresso Caramel and Summer Berries Flavours

    Lactalis Australia Enriches Pauls Dairy Line with Double Espresso Caramel and Summer Berries Flavours

    Lactalis Australia has recently introduced two novel tastes to their high-protein dairy line, Pauls. The fresh offerings, Double Espresso Caramel and Summer Berries, add an exciting twist for consumers.

    The introduction of Double Espresso Caramel and Summer Berries is a thrilling addition to Pauls’ high-protein dairy line. Sold in convenient 400ml bottles, each serving delivers an impressive 30g of protein. These new flavors not only promise a burst of taste but also health benefits, as the company maintains that Paul’s flavored milk range is low in fat and contains no added sugar.

    A spokesperson for Lactalis Australia expressed the company’s enthusiasm for the launch, acknowledging that the new flavors build upon the successful range, providing even more variety for Australians in search of tasty, functional dairy products.

    The representative reaffirmed the company’s commitment to innovation and growth, stating, “Here at Lactalis Australia, we’re proud to continue diversifying our product portfolio to respond to the shifting needs and preferences of our consumers.”

    Questions & Answers

    What new flavors has Lactalis Australia added to their high-protein dairy range, Pauls?
    Pauls has introduced two new flavors to their high-protein dairy line: Double Espresso Caramel and Summer Berries.

    What are the health benefits of Pauls’ flavored milk range?
    Each serving of Pauls’ flavored milk contains 30g of protein. The range is also low in fat and free from added sugars.

    What is Lactalis Australia’s commitment in terms of their product range?
    Lactalis Australia is committed to continually innovating and expanding their product portfolio to meet the evolving needs and preferences of their consumers.

  • Nestle Exits Dairy Methane Action Alliance, Commences Partnership With World Farmers’ Organisation

    Nestle Exits Dairy Methane Action Alliance, Commences Partnership With World Farmers’ Organisation

    Nestle, a global food conglomerate, has announced its decision to exit the Dairy Methane Action Alliance, an international consortium committed to reducing methane emissions. The consortium, established in December 2023, comprises members like Danone, Kraft Heinz, and Starbucks. These members pledge to openly monitor and report methane emissions derived from their dairy supply chains, as well as design and implement strategies to curb these emissions over time.

    Despite withdrawing from the alliance, Nestle has not provided a specific reason for its decision. Nevertheless, the company has affirmed its dedication to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, including methane, across its supply chains. Nestle reiterated its pledge towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

    New Collaboration

    Following its departure from the Dairy Methane Action Alliance, Nestle announced a partnership with the World Farmers’ Organisation. The alliance aims to enhance the resilience of food systems in the face of climate change.

    Climate Alliances Facing Challenges

    Nestle’s withdrawal represents a setback for corporate alliances aiming to mitigate the effects of global warming. This development coincides with the dismantling of several climate protection initiatives by high-profile figures, such as former US President Donald Trump. Additionally, numerous major banks have left the sector’s main group committed to reducing carbon emissions.

    Nestle emphasized its routine assessment of memberships in external organizations, declaring that it has chosen to terminate its membership in the Dairy Methane Action Alliance following such a review.

    By the end of 2024, Nestle had successfully reduced its methane emissions by nearly 21% compared to 2018 levels, according to the company’s 2024 non-financial statement.

    Methane, which is approximately 30 times more potent than carbon dioxide, is a key target in the fight against global warming. Agriculture accounts for nearly 40% of human-induced methane emissions, with the lion’s share originating from livestock, according to the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF).

    The EDF, the organization which established the methane alliance, stated that Nestle’s logo had been taken off its main page, although the company’s name remains visible on other pages. The EDF offered no reason for Nestle’s withdrawal, but acknowledged and appreciated Nestle’s ongoing commitment to addressing dairy emissions through its Dairy Climate Plan and Net Zero Roadmap.

    Questions & Answers

    Question: Why did Nestle leave the Dairy Methane Action Alliance?
    Answer: Nestle hasn’t provided a specific reason for its decision to withdraw from the Dairy Methane Action Alliance.

    Question: Is Nestle still committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions?
    Answer: Yes, despite its withdrawal from the Dairy Methane Action Alliance, Nestle has affirmed its commitment to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, including methane. The company has also reiterated its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

    Question: Has Nestle formed any new partnerships after leaving the Dairy Methane Action Alliance?
    Answer: Yes, Nestle has announced a partnership with the World Farmers’ Organisation, aiming to enhance the resilience of food systems towards climate change.

  • Gippsland Dairy And Beechworth Honey Unveil Honey-infused Yoghurt Exclusively At Coles

    Gippsland Dairy And Beechworth Honey Unveil Honey-infused Yoghurt Exclusively At Coles

    Gippsland Dairy, a subsidiary of Chobani, has joined forces with Beechworth Honey to introduce two new honey-infused yoghurt products into the market.

    Exclusive Partnership Product Launch

    The dynamic collaboration merges Gippsland Dairy’s premium yoghurt with the rich, sweet flavors of Beechworth Honey’s Australian-produced honey. Shoppers can exclusively find these products on the shelves of Coles supermarkets.

    The newly unveiled range features a 160g Honey Pot blend and a Honey Praline Medley Mix-In, the latter of which includes a delightful addition of almonds. Beechworth Honey expressed their exhilaration about the new products, stating, “Tasty is beyond an understatement! We couldn’t be more excited to see this one hit the shelves.”

    Chobani’s Expansion in Australia

    This innovative launch comes on the heels of Chobani’s recent growth of its Fit portfolio in Australia. The expansion saw the debut of Fit Flip, a protein-rich Greek yoghurt product that comes with a side of crunchy mix-ins.

    Questions & Answers

    Where can customers find the new honey-based yoghurt products from Gippsland Dairy and Beechworth Honey?
    These products are exclusively available at Coles supermarkets.

    What are the new products in the honey-based yoghurt range?
    The range features a 160g Honey Pot blend and a Honey Praline Medley Mix-In, which includes almonds.

    What was the recent addition to Chobani’s Fit portfolio in Australia?
    The Fit portfolio was recently expanded with the introduction of Fit Flip, a high-protein Greek yoghurt paired with crunchy mix-ins.

  • Yili Group Forecasts Robust Revenue Growth; Investments Boost Dairy Production Capacity

    Yili Group Forecasts Robust Revenue Growth; Investments Boost Dairy Production Capacity

    Yili Group, a leading dairy company based in New Zealand, is predicting a steady increase in revenue for the upcoming year, following impressive growth during the first half of the current year. The company’s subsidiaries, Westland Milk Products and Oceania Dairy, reported a joint unaudited revenue growth of 16% during the first half of this year, compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. In addition, the pre-tax profit experienced a 12% increase.

    Investing in Production Capacity

    Zhiqiang Li, the Executive Director of Yili Group, stated that the companies are in an excellent position for sustained growth due to significant investments in their production capacity at essential sites.

    “Major investments have been made to increase the production capacity of high-demand, high-value products at Westland’s Hokitika and Rolleston sites, as well as ODL’s Glenavy facility. This is in response to the rising global demand for top-quality dairy products,” said Li.

    Among the significant upgrades is an increase in butter production by 10,000 tonnes at the Hokitika site, as well as enlarged skim milk powder output at the Glenavy site.

    Boosting UHT Cream Production and Export

    These enhancements have facilitated a 20% growth in UHT cream production at the Rolleston site. A considerable amount of this production is exported to China, facilitated by the addition of new equipment such as a silo and revamped unloading facilities.

    In the past year, Westland and Oceania have partnered in sales and marketing ventures to offer a wider variety of dairy products.

    “While the profits for the individual companies will experience a period of consolidation, both total revenue and profit margins are projected to continue their healthy growth trend,” added Li.

    Questions & Answers

    **What is the projected growth for Yili Group?**
    Yili Group is anticipating consistent revenue growth in the upcoming year, following a significant increase in the first half of the current year.

    **What key upgrades have been made to increase production?**
    Key upgrades include a 10,000-tonne increase in butter production at the Hokitika site, as well as an expanded skim milk powder output at the Glenavy site.

    **What collaborations have occurred between Westland and Oceania?**
    In the past year, Westland and Oceania have collaborated on sales and marketing to offer a broader range of dairy products.

  • Bega Group Launches High Protein Milk, Tapping Into Rising Health-conscious Market Trend

    Bega Group Launches High Protein Milk, Tapping Into Rising Health-conscious Market Trend

    Introduction

    In response to growing consumer interest in the natural nutritional benefits of dairy, Bega Group’s Dairy Farmers brand is poised to unveil its High Protein Milk. The product, notable for its high protein content, aims to capture a market increasingly focused on the health advantages of daily food consumption.

    Product Features

    Each 300ml serving of Dairy Farmers’ High Protein Milk contains 18 grams of dairy protein. According to the company, this is the highest concentration of protein in any dairy milk currently on the Australian market. The product matches the protein levels found in Bega’s existing The Complete Dairy 1L range. Furthermore, this high-protein milk maintains the creamy flavor of traditional full-cream milk, balancing health benefits with taste.

    Health and Nutritional Benefits

    Katrina Strazdins, group manager of nutrition at Bega Group, noted that Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk is also rich in calcium. Therefore, when incorporated into a balanced diet, it can serve as a valuable tool for maintaining strong bones and muscles. Additionally, it can aid post-exercise recovery through its high protein content.

    Market Trends and Demand

    The product’s launch aligns with the rising demand for high-protein foods. Bega Group has observed a 23% year-on-year increase in the high-protein category. This trend is being driven by consumers that seek greater functional benefits from their everyday diets. Anjali De Silva, marketing manager of white milk at Bega Group, expressed that this growth in dairy milk presents an opportunity for consumers to leverage its potential as a convenient and natural source of high-quality protein.

    Availability

    Starting from July 14, Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk (2L) will be available in Coles stores throughout NSW, Victoria, and SA.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the protein content of Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk?
    A 300ml serving of Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk contains 18 grams of dairy protein.

    What is the significance of high protein in milk?
    High-protein milk can assist in maintaining strong bones and muscles, as well as aiding recovery after exercise.

    Where and when will Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk be available?
    Dairy Farmers High Protein Milk will be available from July 14 in Coles stores across NSW, Victoria, and SA.

  • Chobani Australia unveils oat yoghurt range

    Chobani Australia unveils oat yoghurt range

    Chobani Australia has extended its non-dairy offering, adding a range of oat yoghurts to its suite of products.

    According to a company statement, Chobani Australia recognised the growing ‘flexitarian’ market, and was motivated to provide these consumers with a greater variety of plant-based food options.

    The company also saw this as an opportunity to diversify the dairy-free yoghurt category, “currently dominated by high fat, strong tasting coconut yoghurt options,” the statement reads.

    The new oat yoghurt range follows Chobani’s entry into the dairy alternative market in 2021, when it launched its oat milk.

    There are two sizes (150g and 500g) and five flavours in the new range: Strawberry, Mango, Blueberry, Vanilla and Natural.

    The range is available in all Woolworths and Coles outlets, and soon to be in independent retailers.

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  • A2 milk taking controlling stake in Mataura Valley Milk

    A2 milk taking controlling stake in Mataura Valley Milk

    A2 Milk’s NZ$270 million bid for New Zealand-based Mataura Valley Milk has been given the green light by the country’s Overseas Investment Office.

    The decision clears the way for a2 to pick up a 75 percent interest in the dairy nutrition business, which is now set to occur at the end of July.

    According to the business, the acquisition “provides the opportunity to participate in nutritional products manufacturing, provides supplier and geographic diversification, and strengthens our relationship with key partners in China.”

    “As previously announced, due to the increasing scale of our infant nutrition business, we have been assessing participation in manufacturing capacity and capability,” said A2 Milk Company CEO Geoff Babidge said last year.

    “Our intention would be to invest further to establish blending and canning capacity at Mataura’s facility to support the establishment of a fully integrated manufacturing plant for infant nutrition.”

    A key part of the investment is that Mataura Valley Milk’s current majority shareholder, China Animal Husbandry Group, will retain its 25 percent interest in the business alongside a2’s 75 percent interest.

    China Animal Husbandry Group is the parent company to a2’s strategic logistics and distribution partner in China, CSFA Holdings Shanghai, allowing closer cooperation between the two firms.

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  • ACCC finds Brownes Dairy in breach of Dairy Code

    ACCC finds Brownes Dairy in breach of Dairy Code

    Brownes Dairy has been penalised $22,200 by the ACCC over two breaches of the Dairy Code of Conduct last year. Last year, the WA dairy producer published two standard form milk supply agreements on its website which failed to specify key terms such as a definite end date of the supply period, and allowing the company to unilaterally vary the terms of the agreement.

    “It is critical that processors take active steps to ensure compliance with the Dairy Code so that farmers have the certainty and transparency in relation to milk supply agreements that the Code is intended to provide,” said ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh.

    “One of the requirements of the Dairy Code is that processors ensure their milk supply agreements are compliant before publishing them on their websites, and in this instance, Brownes Dairy published two supply agreements that were allegedly non-compliant with the code.”

    Under the code, most dairy processors are required to publish on their websites, every June 1 a standard-form milk-supply agreement to cover all the circumstances in which they intend to purchase milk in the coming financial year. This allows farmers to compare processors’ minimum prices and contract terms.

    According to a statement from the ACCC, Brownes Dairy addressed its breaches in the 2021-22 agreements published last month and has undertaken to write to farmers that it had contracts with, advising that it will only exercise its rights under existing agreements to the extent they are consistent with the terms of these new agreements.

    “Ensuring compliance with the Dairy Code remains an ACCC priority. We are continuing to assess agreements published on June 1 this year, and any identified breaches may result in the ACCC taking enforcement action where appropriate,” said Keogh.

  • Yonghui boosts stake in Chinese grocery Zhongbai

    Yonghui boosts stake in Chinese grocery Zhongbai

    Dairy Farm Group-backed Yonghui Superstores is to boost its interest in Central Chinese regional supermarket chain, Zhongbai Holdings.

    According to a stock exchange filing in Shanghai, Yonghui is offering RMB8.10 per share to take its stake in the company from 30 per cent to 40 per cent. The deal is worth RMB559 million (US$83.3 million) and the shares will be bought from a state investment fund.

    Zhongbai, based in Wuhan, has 1255 stores, mostly in central China, including supermarkets, convenience stores, neighbourhood fresh-produce shops, foodmarkets and a premium grocery concept.

    Dairy Farm Group has a 20 per cent stake in Yonghui and has continued to invest in the business to maintain that shareholding as other investors, including Tencent and JD have invested in the retailer’s growth. Jardine Matheson executive chairman Ben Keswick is Yonghui’s chairman.

    Yonghui currently has just a single store in Hubei province, which means the investment will give it instant critical mass in the region. The company has more than 950 supermarkets in 22 Chinese provinces, its strongest representation in Guangdong.

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  • Vinamilk to open plant in Myanmar, its 2nd in Southeast Asia

    Vinamilk to open plant in Myanmar, its 2nd in Southeast Asia

    Vietnam’s biggest dairy company plans to open a plant in Myanmar this year and is preparing to enter Indonesia and China. The Myanmar factory will be Vinamilk’s second in Southeast Asia after acquiring its first in Cambodia. It is in discussion for one joint venture in Indonesia. Myanmar is one of Vinamilk’s strategic markets to offset declining revenues in the Iraqi market, which once accounted for 60 percent of its exports. In 2017, Vinamilk reported falling exports for the first time in 20 years due to political tensions in the Middle East.

    In the latest year for which export figures are available, 2017, it shipped products worth VND7.4 trillion ($312 million), a 4.2 percent decline from the previous year.

    The company is also preparing to enter the Chinese market later this year. Chinese authorities are expected to sign a draft protocol in April this year allowing Vietnamese dairy products to be exported.

    Vinamilk is planning a change in export strategy.

    “The company will move from traditional exports to intensive cooperation with distribution partners in new key markets, and gradually build production facilities in potential markets such as Myanmar,” Vinamilk chief executive Mai Kieu Lien told shareholders in 2018.

    She added that the company has set aside $750 million for acquisitions, building new facilities and setting up cattle farms between 2017 and 2021.

    It now has 13 plants and 10 dairy farms in Vietnam, a plant each in the U.S., New Zealand and Cambodia and a subsidiary in Poland.

    In all, it has three wholly-owned foreign subsidiaries: Driftwood Dairy Holding Corporation in the U.S, Angkor Dairy Products Co., Ltd, in Cambodia, and Vinamilk Europe Spo’stkaz Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnoscia in Poland.

    It holds a 22.81 percent stake in a joint venture with Miraka Dairy in New Zealand and has a Thailand-based trading office.

    Last year the company paid $19.74 million to buy a 51 percent stake in Laotian company Lao–Jagro Development Xiengkhouang Co., Ltd, to set up a series of hi-tech beef and dairy farms based on Japanese technology.

    Vinamilk’s products are available in 46 countries and territories, including some demanding markets such as Japan, the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

    Last year the company reported profits before tax of VND11.52 trillion ($499.26 million), up 12.05 percent from the previous year, on revenues of VND52.63 trillion ($2.28 billion), down 2.93 percent.

  • Fonterra India appoints Ishmeet Singh CEO

    Fonterra India appoints Ishmeet Singh CEO

    Fonterra Future Dairy Pvt Ltd, a new joint venture between global dairy nutrition company Fonterra Co-operative Group and new age FMCG company Future Consumer Limited, announced the appointment of Ishmeet Singh as its CEO, effective from January 7, 2019.

    Singh, a seasoned leader with a proven track record of profitable growth and business expansion, joins the business to deliver its ambition to bring high value and innovative dairy products to Indian consumers.

    Singh was a member, Western Region Committee (WRC) of the American Chamber of Commerce. He is a physics graduate, and has a Master’s in Management Studies from Mumbai’s Sydenham Institute.

    Singh says, “Over the next seven years dairy consumption is set to increase by 82 billion litres – seven times the forecasted growth for China. I feel extremely privileged to be able to lead this new opportunity as we look to bring an enhanced dairy experience to Indian consumers. I firmly believe through Fonterra Future Dairy we have a huge opportunity to challenge and change the market, combining Fonterra’s global dairy innovation, manufacturing and nutrition expertise with Future Group’s leadership in retail and distribution expertise and infrastructure.”

    Leading the growth and expansion of some of the world’s largest, trusted flagship brands in the Indian market, is familiar territory to Singh, having worked over the last 25 years at top multinational and FMCG companies such as Mattel, Vodafone, Hindustan Unilever, and Coca-Cola.

    Most recently, he led the business at Mattel, largest toy manufacturer in the world, as its Country Manager for India and the SAARC region. Previously, he held the role of Business Head at Vodafone India for over 5 years, leading remarkable revenue growth and retail expansion in many circles including Mumbai and Maharashtra.

    Managing Director Future Consumer Limited and Board Member of Fonterra Future Dairy, Ashni Biyani says, “We’re delighted to have someone of Ishmeet’s calibre to lead the business. As a sales and marketing professional at heart, we see him being instrumental in helping us build a brand that Indians love.”

    Fonterra’s Managing Director of Sri Lanka and the Indian Subcontinent, Chairman of Fonterra Future Dairy, Sunil Sethi said, “As our exciting growth phase picks up steam, it is critical that people with the right experience, values and drive are in place to steer the business forward. We are in the process of putting together a first-class team to build a fantastic legacy for the business. Through the ambition we have set, we believe the learning experience and possibilities here at Fonterra Future Dairy are limitless. Ishmeet is a proven and highly accomplished professional with a passion for leading teams to transformative success and growth. With his vision and deep personal commitment to society, we are confident that he will bring immense value in delivering on our ambition.”