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Muller, the German dairy and chilled foods group whose portfolio includes Muller, Weihenstephan and Sachsenmilch, has signed a purchase agreement to acquire the Elinas and Lunebest brands from Hochwald, a cooperative-based dairy processor producing UHT milk, condensed milk and dairy ingredients.
The deal, which also covers the Luneburg production site and its 150 staff, will transfer trademark rights and product lines to Muller, according to company statements.
The company said that local manufacturing in Luneburg would be maintained following completion, and that the two brands would strengthen its presence in Germany’s branded dairy segment, where it has hitherto been represented largely through private-label contracts. Elinas is best known for Greek-style yoghurts, while Lunebest offers fruit yoghurts and quark specialities, giving Muller an expanded foothold in value-added cultured dairy.
Approval from the relevant competition authorities is pending. The company claimed the acquisition would “strategically complement” its existing operations and broaden its offering to retailers and consumers.
No financial details were disclosed, but Muller said the integration of the brands would proceed once regulatory clearance is secured.
Source: Muller / Hochwald
