Lactalis Canada Acquires Agropur Fine Cheese Division

Lactalis Canada Inc. reached a definitive agreement with Agropur Co-operative to acquire its fine cheese division and associated import activities. The transaction includes the acquisition of the brands OKA, Monsieur Gustav, and L’Extra, along with production facilities in Oka and Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec. The deal will transfer approximately 400 employees to the Lactalis workforce.

For Agropur Co-operative, the divestiture is part of a broader strategy to simplify operations and prioritize high-value areas such as fluid milk, butter, industrial cheese, and dairy ingredients. While the fine cheese unit was profitable, it accounted for roughly 2% of Agropur's consolidated revenue.

Lactalis aims to use the acquisition to expand its specialty portfolio, which already includes Galbani, Président, Black Diamond, and P’tit Québec. Chairman of Lactalis Group Emmanuel Besnier stated the move allows the company to leverage flagship Quebec brands and strengthen its position in the Canadian market.

Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions and approval from the Competition Bureau Canada, with the transfer expected to become effective within a few months.