French dairy processor Bongrain believes its potential partnership with local co-op Terra Lacta will boost its presence in the market for “traditional” cheeses.

Bongrain and Terra Lacta this week confirmed they do plan to form a “partnership” after months of talks.

The potential nature of the partnership has not been disclosed with the companies set for further talks and a Bongrain spokesperson was coy about the alternatives set for discussion.

However, she told just-food the partnership would benefit both sides. “For Bongrain, it would be in traditional cheese, especially goat’s cheese and AOC cheese. We are already in the categories but Terra Lacta has very good knowledge of them, particularly in cheese and butter,” the spokesperson said. “It’s interesting for Terra Lacta because Bongrain has many R&D advantages and there is also our knowledge of international markets.”