Lactalis has signed an agreement to sell the cheese brand Polly-O to US-based Italian-style cheese firm BelGioioso.

The French dairy major acquired Polly-O in a deal struck last year with Kraft Heinz for a selection of cheese brands in the US. However, after a competition review, Lactalis had to sell some of the assets.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Polly-O is the second brand to go after Lactalis sold the Athenos feta cheese line earlier this month to Swiss dairy group Emmi for an undisclosed sum.

“These disposals should allow Lactalis to advance on regulatory approval and finalise the acquisition of Kraft Heinz’s natural cheese activities in the United States before the end of 2021,” Lactalis said in a statement.

The US$3.2bn deal with Kraft Heinz included the brands Breakstone’s, Athenos, Knudsen, Polly-O and Hoffman’s, along with the US licensing rights for Cracker Barrel. Lactalis also acquired the rights to Cheez Whiz outside the US and Canada.

Kraft Heinz kept the Philadelphia cream cheese, Kraft Singles, Velveeta processed cheese and Cheez Whiz businesses in the US and Canada under its wings.

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

In the US, Lactalis markets brands such as President, Galbani and Siggi’s. Financial terms for the Polly-O brand were not disclosed.

BelGioioso Cheese is based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and produces cheeses such as mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan and fresh curds for the US retail and foodservice channels. Founded in 1979, its brands include La Bottega BioGioioso and Casaro.

BelGioioso said in a statement the Polly-O brand has net sales of around $177m.

Its president Errico Auricchio said: “We are thrilled to add the Polly-O brand to our portfolio and want to thank the teams at Kraft Heinz and Lactalis Group for their assistance and dedication to finalising the agreement in such a short time.

“I am confident this will benefit consumers thanks to healthy competition in the category as a result of this acquisition.”

 

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