Emmi Strengthens its Position in US Speciality Cheese Market
Swiss dairy group Emmi has entered into a merger with the prestigious cheese company Cowgirl Creamery Corporation and the associated Tomales Bay Foods, based in Petaluma, California in the US. This will enable Emmi to strengthen its position in the area of sustainably produced organic cow’s milk speciality cheeses. In addition, Emmi will benefit from the strong voice of the ‘Cowgirls’ in the American artisan cheese community.
Emmi currently generates 44 % of its sales abroad: one-third through exports from Switzerland and two-thirds through products made locally by Emmi subsidiaries. International growth is a part of Emmi’s strategy and is achieved both organically and through further acquisitions. Of particular interest are companies in niche markets which operate in countries where Emmi is already active.
Emmi has extensive experience in North America and has continually increased its sales and earnings in its most important international market in recent years. Its network of North American subsidiaries and holdings includes: Emmi USA, Emmi Roth USA (partner since 2006, acquired in 2009), Cypress Grove Chevre (US, acquired in 2010), The Icelandic Milk and Skyr Corporation (US, 22 % holding since 2013), the cheese business of J.L. Freeman (Canada, acquired in 2015), and Redwood Hill Farm & Creamery (US, acquired in 2015).
Emmi will take full control of Tomales Bay Foods and the Cowgirl Creamery Corporation by the end of May 2016. Both companies will continue to operate as separate entities on the market. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.
