FrieslandCampina buys US cheese importer Jana Foods

Dutch dairy cooperative FrieslandCampina has acquired US-based cheese importer and distributor Jana Foods for an undisclosed sum.

FrieslandCampina Consumer Dairy president Roel van Neerbos said: “This acquisition supports our strategy of investing for growth.

“This investment is in line with our strategy to grow our cheese business and strengthens our position in The Americas. This deal will allow us to offer consumers a wider portfolio of innovative products for the US market.”

Jana Foods imports and markets FrieslandCampina’s Dutch cheese in the US, and has been a strategic partner of the company for many years.

In addition to Denmark, the US-based firm imports fine cheese from the UK, Australia, Ireland and other countries.

With the completion of the acquisition, Jana Foods will be integrated with the FrieslandCampina Consumer Dairy USA business.

Jana Foods former owner and CEO Dan Lynch will remain at the business and serve as vice-president for imports and senior commercial advisor.

FrieslandCampina offers a range of products and its portfolio covers speciality imported Dutch cheeses from mild, aged and smoked Gouda to Edam.

The company’s speciality cheese brands can be found across the US in the deli section of supermarkets, club stores and mass merchandisers.

In August, FrieslandCampina expanded its cheese activities with the acquisition of Parrano and Tjiezi brands from Best Cheese Holland.