Parmalat and Australian cooperative Murray Goulburn have joined the race to acquire Dairy Farmers.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


In a statement today (16 May), Dairy Farmers said the two groups had sought clearance from the Australian competition regulator for a joint bid for the company.


The Parmalat-led move is the third bidder to seek regulator clearance, following New Zealand’s Fonterra and National Foods, owned by Japan’s Kirin Holdings.


Dairy Farmers, which is owned by some 2,000 Australian farmers, put itself up for sale last month. It has said there has been wide interest in the race to be the business, which has been valued at as much as A$1bn (US$943m).


Singapore’s Olam International has been named as another possible bidder, while another potential suitor, the Australia-based food maker Goodman Fielder, is said to have pulled out of the race.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Food Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Food Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now