Fonterra eyes factory deal with Dutch

Theo Spierings. Photo / Dean Purcell

Fonterra, the world's biggest dairy exporter, is looking at signing a deal with Netherlands-based A-Ware Food Group to set up a new European cheese and dairy ingredients factory.

The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding where A-Ware will operate the cheese plant and Fonterra the dairy ingredients plant as both parties seek a new pivot in their respective supply chains.

Whey and lactose produced onsite will be processed into ingredients and supplied to Fonterra's customers in Europe and Asia, while A-Ware will look to build its existing European base.

"We are producing more milk powders in New Zealand and therefore need alternative sources of whey to meet growth requirements," Fonterra chief executive Theo Spierings said.

"We also need more lactose for our global ingredient business."

Spierings has an intimate knowledge of the Dutch dairy sector, having overseen the merger of co-operative Royal Friesland Foods with Campina in 2008.

The New Zealand dairy exporter has embarked on a new strategy that includes a bigger focus on advanced nutritional needs for babies andageing populations, as well as increasing its presence in emerging Asian nations.

The companies will undertake due diligence with a view to signing a deal by the end of the year.

A-Ware is a significant provider of premium cheese in Europe with annual revenues of €1 billion ($1.63 billion).

Last week, Fonterra cut its forecast 2012 milk price and flagged lower payments in 2013 in response to a slide in global prices for dairy commodities.