Belgian cheese businesses Vache Bleue and Flanders Food Production (FFP) have announced they are to merge to form European Dairy Company, a new dairy powerhouse with a combined turnover of €500 million ($525 million).
Founded in 1927, Vache Bleue specialises in private label and freshly packed cheeses. The company operates three production sites in Belgium, France, and Germany, with a brand portfolio that includes Vache Bleue, Dilea Zero Lactose, and Valmartin.
Founded in 2003 an headquartered in Lommel, Belgium, FFP specialises in cutting, grating, and portioning cheese, with expertise in private label production.
Commenting on the deal, Vache Bleue Group CEO Free Vroome said: “By joining forces, we have obtained a strong position in the dairy market. This gives Vache Bleue Group access to FFP’s expertise and technology”.
FFP CEO Axel Van de Poel added: “The investment power of our new group enables us to deliver what customers expect: strong products, fast deliveries and high quality, backed by modern technology. FFP can now rely on its own cheese production in Germany and access new markets with the products of the Vache Bleue Group”.
Source: EFA News / FoodBev