Lactalis, a prominent player in the food and beverage industry, has recently introduced a new line of plant-based “high protein” drinks in Canada. The Enjoy range includes six flavors – oat, oat vanilla, almond, almond vanilla, hazelnut, and hazelnut and oat, all of which are unsweetened. These beverages are rich in pea protein, with each 250 ml serving containing eight grams.
This move comes in response to the increasing demand for plant-based options that not only taste great but also offer positive health benefits. Nathalie Cusson, General Manager of Lactalis Canada’s fluid division, highlighted the unique selling point of Enjoy – its high protein content, aligning with consumer preferences for nutritious choices.
Mark Taylor, CEO of Lactalis in Canada, emphasized how the new line complements their expansive portfolio of 20 consumer brands and expands their plant-based offerings to Canadian consumers. The company’s Sudbury-based production facility has been converted into a dedicated plant-based manufacturing facility, showcasing their commitment to this growing category.
In addition to the launch of Enjoy, Lactalis has made strategic investments to enhance its presence in the Canadian market. Brands like Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, and Balderson are part of their extensive offerings, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
Despite facing challenges in the previous year, Lactalis reported a 4.3% increase in turnover to €29.5bn ($31.4bn). The company acknowledged a shift in consumer behavior towards private labels, impacting sales volumes of national brands. Chairman Emmanuel Besnier noted a marginal improvement in consolidated net profit, indicating resilience in a competitive market landscape.
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