Lactalis Canada Acquires Agropur’s Fine Cheese Division

TORONTO — Lactalis Canada Inc., part of France based Lactalis Group, announced on July 15 that it has reached a definitive agreement with Agropur Cooperative to acquire assets of its fine cheese division including Quebec-made brands OKA, Monsieur Gustav and L’Extra, two production facilities as well as its fine cheese import activities.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and approval by Competition Bureau Canada. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Per a press release, these artisanal cheeses add to Lactalis Canada’s portfolio of specialty and core cheese brands including Galbani, Président, Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, P’tit Québec, Balderson, Cheestrings Ficello and aMOOza!

“This acquisition represents a major opportunity for Lactalis to build on flagship Quebec brands and outstanding cheesemaking expertise. It strengthens our position in the Canadian market and supports our ambition to provide consumers with healthy, high-quality dairy products, driven by excellence and innovation,” said Emmanuel Besnier, Chairman of Lactalis Group.

“This acquisition reflects Lactalis Canada’s clear ambition in this country – to lead through investment in efficient capacity and capability building, trusted national brands including customer brands and strong partnerships across the dairy value chain,” said Mark Taylor, President & CEO, Lactalis Canada. “Building on the significant investments we have made in the Canadian dairy and food manufacturing sector, this latest transaction underscores yet another important milestone in Lactalis Canada’s growth journey and highlights our role as a priority market for Lactalis Group.”

Through this transaction, Lactalis Canada will acquire two production facilities in Oka and Saint-Hyacinthe, Que. and add approximately 400 employees to its 4,500 team across Canada.