Lactalis is set to invest 313 million reais ($55.3 million) to enhance its dairy production capabilities in Paraná state, Brazil. This strategic investment aligns with the dairy giant’s ten-year anniversary of operations in South America. In a statement, Lactalis asserts that this capital infusion is designed to strengthen its “strong and responsible leadership in the country’s milk chain.”
The new funding will facilitate the establishment of a UHT milk production line at the Londrina facility. Simultaneously, Lactalis plans to expand the Carambeí plant, increasing its production capacity for yogurts, fermented milk, dairy beverages, and desserts.
These projects were formalized through agreements signed with the Paraná state government on March 18. This ceremony took place in Curitiba, attended by Governor Ratinho Júnior and Lactalis’ CEO in Brazil, Roosevelt Junior.
According to Roosevelt Junior, Lactalis has invested over 710 million reais in Paraná in the past decade. The company operates multiple facilities in the state, including the Carambeí plant, which is the largest and provides 830 direct jobs. The Londrina facility supports an additional 280 roles, while Pato Branco contributes another 36 positions.
This announcement follows a previously planned 250 million reais investment in Minas Gerais, reported in November, aimed at modernizing and expanding seven factories across the state. Further bolstering its presence, Lactalis operates logistics units in Contagem and an administrative office in Belo Horizonte, employing a total of 3,654 individuals.
Additionally, in March, Lactalis disclosed a planned 100 million reais investment in Rio Grande do Sul, aimed at enhancing five plants in Teutônia, Tapera, Três de Maio, Santa Rosa, and Ijuí.
Founded in 1933 and headquartered in Laval, France, Lactalis boasts a diverse portfolio of brands, including Batavo, Président, and Elegê. Beyond its expanding footprint in Brazil, the company is making significant strides throughout South America.
Recently, Lactalis announced its intent to acquire Uruguay-based Granja Pocha, a company renowned for producing cheese and yogurt under the Colonial brand. Granja Pocha manufactures its products in Juan Lacaze, Uruguay.
This ongoing investment and expansion initiative in the food and beverage industry reflects Lactalis’s commitment to adapting to evolving food and drink consumer trends while bolstering its position in the competitive food and drink business landscape.
