Russian food and beverage producer Wimm-Bill-Dann Foods has completed the acquisition of the Moscow-based dairy producer Ochakovo.
Ochakovo Dairy Plant is the fourth-largest dairy producer in Russia and one of the largest dairy enterprises in Moscow, with a 2006 market share of 3.1% in Russia and 8.4% in Moscow. The plant produces branded milk, sour cream, yogurts, cheese curds and other dairy products under the 33 Cows, Pastushok, Kremlin Products and Actilife brand names.
Commenting on the deal, Tony Maher, Wimm-Bill-Dann’s CEO, said: “Ochakovo Dairy Plant with its long history, well-established national brands and strong customer loyalty, earned through sustained high quality and a wide proposition, is a welcome addition to our existing facilities and brand portfolio. Wimm-Bill-Dann is all about Health and Wellness, and I am convinced that Ochakovo’s brands will fit very well into the brand portfolio we want to take forward. We have always benefited from our unmatched knowledge of the Russian consumer and marketplace. Now, we believe we have the opportunity, not only to extend our product offering, but also expand our production capacity to manufacture these top quality products.”
Wimm-Bill-Dann said that the move is in line with its strategy to expand through the selective acquisition of successful companies occupying a leading market position and possessing strong brand portfolios.
The Federal Anti-Monopoly Service of the Russian Federation has already approved the deal.
