The Dutch dairy group is planning to merge its European branded and private label activities into a single business unit, while also restructuring its global set-up, reducing the number of business groups from seven to six.

FrieslandCampina intends to combine the retail activities of its Europe and Retail & Americas business groups with effect from 1 January 2027, the company said in a press release. The plan is subject to the relevant employee participation procedures before it can be implemented.

The integration would bring together branded and private label activities in a single European unit. According to the press release, the aim is to better serve customers and strengthen the company’s approach across product categories.

“With this step, we aim to organise our European activities in a simpler and more customer-centric way. By bringing our retail activities closer together, we can better serve customers, respond faster to market opportunities and make better use of our scale and expertise, while continuing to create value from member milk,” said CEO Jan Derck van Karnebeek in the press release.

Americas to move to new expanded region
In addition to the European integration, FrieslandCampina also intends to transfer its Americas operating company from the Retail & Americas business group to Middle East, Pakistan & Africa, also with effect from 1 January 2027. The new business group would be named Middle East, Pakistan, Africa & Americas.

Together, the planned changes mean the group would move from seven to six business groups. Dustin Woodward, currently President Europe, will continue to lead the combined European business group. Tuncay Özgüner, currently President Retail & Americas, will take over leadership of the expanded region.

Ali Khan, currently President Middle East, Pakistan & Africa, has decided to retire. Further details on the organisational implications of the changes are expected to be announced in due course, FrieslandCampina said.

By Maja Løvstrup
Photo: FrieslandCampina