France: Lactalis to close Romanian dairy plant

Lactalis, the French dairy giant, has announced plans to close a factory in Miercurea Ciuc, Romania, which it acquired through its 2016 acquisition of local milk processor Covalact.

The company stated its aim was to consolidate its investments in its remaining four significant factories in Oiejdea, Sfantu Gheorghe, Campulung Moldovenesc, and Tunari. Production from the Miercurea Ciuc site will be transferred to the other factories to maintain supply and availability.

Commenting on the move, Lactali Romian general manager Onur Barim said: “This new stage in organizing our activity is part of Lactalis Group’s long-term strategy to consolidate investments and develop its businesses in Romania”.

“We have invested over €60m in the last five years in Romania and, for the current year, we have planned investments of over €13m”, he added. “These investments will allow us to be more competitive on the market and further diversify our product portfolios, for the final benefit of Romanian consumers”.

The closure is said to affect about 95 employees.

Source: Just Food