Danone announced today, June 22, that it is engaged in two significant transactions aimed at enhancing its footprint within the rapidly expanding healthy nutrition market in the Asia-Pacific region.
The prominent French dairy company has finalized an agreement to acquire Made Group, a beverage business based in Australia.
Danone is also planning to gain full ownership of its fresh dairy joint venture with the Canadian dairy firm Saputo.
The specifics regarding the financial aspects of these acquisitions have not been disclosed.
Founded in 2005, Made Group offers products such as Cocobella coconut water, yogurts, and Rokeby protein smoothies. Its portfolio features a variety of high-protein ready-to-drink items and yogurt products.
Majority owned by TPG Capital since 2021, Made Group operates across Australia, and has a footprint in New Zealand and Southeast Asia.
In addition, Danone will acquire the remaining 49% interest in its Australian fresh dairy joint venture with Saputo, enabling it to take full command of the operation.
The joint venture, which markets popular brands like Activia and YoPro, has allowed Danone to establish a robust position in the functional yogurt sector in Australia, according to the French corporation.
Antoine de Saint-Affrique, the CEO of Danone, remarked, “With its strong portfolio of brands and healthy nutritional products, focusing on gut health and protein, Made shows an impressive track record of rapid and profitable growth.”
He further noted, “To further enhance our operational flexibility, we are also acquiring the remaining stake in our Australian fresh dairy joint venture.”
Both transactions are anticipated to finalize in the latter half of 2026, pending standard closing conditions such as regulatory approvals.
Danone indicated that Made Group is projected to generate sales exceeding €300 million ($344 million) for the fiscal year concluding in June 2026.
The company also mentioned that this acquisition is expected to positively impact its operating margin and earnings per share from the first year of ownership.
In March, Danone made headlines with its acquisition of the UK meal-replacement company Huel, although the financial details remained undisclosed. The Financial Times estimated the purchase price to be around €1 billion (approximately $1.15 billion). Just Food has reached out to Danone for further comments.
Last month, de Saint-Affrique dismissed the possibility of Danone pursuing the Mead Johnson infant formula brand that Reckitt Benckiser owns in the US.