Lactalis completes acquisition of Ehrmann Commonwealth Dairy

French dairy company Lactalis has completed the acquisition of Ehrmann Commonwealth Dairy, the US yoghurt business of German dairy firm Ehrmann.

Financial details of the transaction have not been divulged.

Lactalis North America CEO Thierry Clement said: “The Ehrmann acquisition is a terrific complement to our Stonyfield and Siggi’s brands in the US.

“Ehrmann’s Vermont and Arizona plants are the ideal platforms to develop our star brands, strengthen national distribution, and secure topflight quality and service for our private label customers.”

Founded in 2009, Ehrmann Commonwealth Dairy operates two manufacturing facilities, which employ 250 people in Brattleboro in Vermont and Casa Grande in Arizona.

The facilities are engaged in the production of yoghurt and other dairy products under the Green Mountain Creamery and Liebe brands. The yoghurt division also features a strong private label business.

The acquisition is part of Lactalis Group’s growth strategy and is its fourth deal over the past two years.

Clement further added: “The capability we gain with Ehrmann’s two plants, combined with the power of our leading brands, ensures the long term growth of the Lactalis yoghurt business in the US, and underlines our commitment and ambition in the category.”

With Commonwealth Dairy, Lactalis now has eight factories in the US market that employ more than 2,400 employees. The company owns brands such as President, Galbani, Parmalat, Siggi’s, Stonyfield, Karoun, rondelé and Black Diamond.

Last January, Lactalis agreed to acquire US-based Icelandic style yoghurt maker Siggi’s for an undisclosed price.

This acquisition was subject to the expiration of the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act in the US.