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Through its Brazilian ‘subsidiary’ Laticínios Porto Alegre, Emmi Group has acquired a majority shareholding in Verde Campo from Coca-Cola. The 70% stake will complement Emmi’s position in Brazil. Verde Campo’s dairy products include yogurt and milk drinks with high-quality whey proteins. The Verde Campo brand is favoured among nutritionists due to the health benefits of its lactose-free, high-protein and natural formulas. Emmi has held a 40% stake in Laticínios Porto Alegre since 2017 and increased it to 70% in 2019. Coca-Cola acquired Verde Campo under its Brazilian partner Leão in 2015. Brazil is the largest market for dairy products in Latin America – Emmi perceives further growth potential in the market as the acquisition of Verde Campo will speed up the transformation of the portfolio through the addition of innovative brands and differentiated premium concepts. Ricarda Demarmels, CEO of Emmi Group, said: “The shareholding in Verde Campo will allow us to improve our position on the strategically important Brazilian market while reinforcing the value of our portfolio with a strong brand and a focus on functional premium dairy products. We are confident that by joining forces with Verde Campo’s former founding team, we can take the brand to profitable growth.” Alessandro Rios Carvalho, Verde Campo’s founder, and Álvaro Gazolla, former head of marketing and sales, will retain the remaining 30% stake in Verde Campo. “This arrangement affirms Emmi’s conviction that the company can take Verde Campo to sustainable, profitable growth,” Emmi said in a statement. Through the deal, Verde Campo will continue to operate as an independent company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, with completion of the acquisition subject to competition approval in Brazil.