FDBusiness.com

Nestle is reported to be considering joining forces with French dairy group Lactalis to make a joint bid for Yoplait, the yoghurt producer. Yoplait has been in play following the decision by 50% owner PAI Partners, the private equity firm, to sell its stake. The other co-owner, French dairy co-operative Sodiaal, may also be willing to sell part of its shareholding in order to reduce debt following its recent acquisition of Entremont, the French cheese producer.

With sales of Eur3.8b and a gross operating profit of Eur120m in 2009, Yoplait is valued at between Eur1b and Eur1.2b. Using its franchise system, the Yoplait brand has been developed globally with well established local partners. Yoplait branded products are currently marketed in over 75 countries.

Apart from Nestle and Lactalis, other potential suitors for Yoplait include Arla Foods and General Mills, which operates the Yoplait franchise in the US, along with a number of private equity companies.