Lactalis Group, a dairy group, through its US affiliate has announced the completion of its acquisition of The Kraft Heinz Co.’s natural, specialty and other cheese businesses. The companies previously entered a definitive agreement in September of 2020.
The deal adds a portfolio of cheese brands including Cracker Barrel, Breakstone’s, Knudsen, Hoffman’s and the perpetual license for the use of the Kraft brand in natural, grated and international cheeses for Lactalis. The firm also acquires Cheez Whiz brand outside the United States and a license for Velveeta.
“Incorporating this iconic portfolio of beloved brands into the Lactalis family creates important new opportunities for business development, product innovation, and positive community, consumer, and employee impact,” said Lactalis North America CEO, Gilles Meziere.
“We’re thrilled to bring our extraordinary teams together, learn from each other and continue to build on our deep, shared expertise in cheese as we grow this strong portfolio of brands that consumers love and trust,” said Peter Cotter, chief executive officer of Lactalis Heritage Dairy and former Kraft Heinz executive.