Arla Foods and DMK Group are pleased to announce that all necessary regulatory approvals have been received for their planned merger.
This marks a significant milestone in bringing together 11,200 dairy farmers across seven countries, committed to investing in the scale and resilience of European food production, safeguarding food security, and to nourish a growing global population. The merger is expected to take effect on June 1st 2026. Until then, both companies continue to operate as independent entities.
Today, Arla Foods and DMK Group have confirmed that the merger between their cooperatives has received approvals from all required regulatory authorities, creating Europe’s leading farmer-owned dairy cooperative and a European champion to drive forward dairy farming and food production.
The merger builds on years of proven partnership, shared values and complementary strengths. It’s a union of 11,200 dairy farmers across seven European countries and 28,800 colleagues globally, who will collaborate to contribute to good food choices and vital European food security at a time of geopolitical and economic shifts. Together, they share a commitment to help co-create and scale solutions that support more resilient food systems, built on operational stability and a robust cooperative economy that ensures a reliable food supply and a stable foundation for the cooperatives farmers.
With this final milestone achieved, the companies will bring together a combined milk pool of 19,4 billion kg annually and a pro forma revenue of +20 billion euros, all under the Arla name.
Jan Toft Nørgaard, Chair of Arla Foods, says:
“This is a landmark day for our cooperatives, for the next generation of dairy farmers and for European food production. We can move forward together to secure the necessary scale, long-term economic resilience and investment capability required to contribute to shaping a food sector with a reduced impact on climate and nature. Our cooperatives have united farmers for generations and collaboration across borders has never been more important to help feed life across the planet.”
Heinz Korte, Chair of DMK Group, says:
“We, the farmers, are looking forward to joining forces. The strong farmer support shown in the June 2025 votes reflects our commitment to stand together across borders, driven by our shared values and a clear vision for the future of dairy. We are building one of the largest communities of farmers in Europe, and from our local roots we can strengthen our global reach and further grow the value of our milk.”
Combined strengths will secure stable dairy production in Europe
The two companies are long term partners and a natural strategic fit. By joining forces, they can secure stable dairy farming and production in Europe and strengthen their ability to deliver value to people worldwide through iconic global dairy brands, including Europe’s #1 dairy brand, Arla®.
The combined company will be an even stronger partner for customers across retail, foodservice, and ingredients, offering a broader range of high-quality products, enhanced innovation, and expanded collaboration on both industry and private label solutions.
Peder Tuborgh, CEO of Arla Foods, says:
“Together, we will become one of the continent’s best dairy producers for the future. We aim to be among the most trusted partners in safeguarding European food production and in supporting farming practices that reduce our impact on climate and nature. With a growing global population, dairy nutrition has much to offer, and by bringing together our milk, brands, production network and strengths, we reinforce our promise to Feed Life™.”
Ingo Müller, CEO of DMK Group, says:
“The merger will sharpen our technological edge, accelerate innovation, and open new opportunities for growth and collaboration, powered by our shared brands, deep category expertise, and the complementary strengths of DMK and Arla. With a collaborative culture and a strengthened position in our markets, we will be even more a pillar of strength in ensuring the secure supply of food for people in Europe and globally.“
The merger aims to consolidate market positions and enhance operational efficiencies within the dairy sector. By combining resources, Arla Foods and DMK Group intend to strengthen their competitive edge in the European market.
Yes, the relevant competition authorities have granted the green light for the transaction to proceed. This regulatory clearance allows Arla Foods and DMK Group to move forward with their planned integration.
Consumers can expect a more streamlined supply chain and potentially a wider availability of high-quality dairy products. The collaboration between Arla Foods and DMK Group is designed to foster innovation and maintain consistent product standards.
The approval signals a trend toward increased consolidation as major players like Arla Foods and DMK Group seek to scale operations. This strategic move reflects the industry’s focus on long-term sustainability and market stability.
While the merger integrates specific business interests, both Arla Foods and DMK Group will continue to operate within their respective frameworks. The focus remains on leveraging the strengths of both entities to create a more robust combined presence.
