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In a move to streamline its European operations, FrieslandCampina has announced the sale of its Romanian subsidiary to Bonafarm Group, a player in the regional food and beverage sector.

This transaction encompasses the well-known Napolact dairy brand and the associated production facilities located in Cluj-Napoca and Târgu Mureș.

The decision to divest follows an extensive review of FrieslandCampina’s business activities in Romania, reflecting a broader strategy to concentrate on core markets and high-value growth segments.

Despite holding a leading position in the Romanian dairy market, FrieslandCampina concluded that its Romanian operations lacked synergy with its European portfolio and did not optimally valorise the milk from its member dairy farmers.

Dustin Woodward, president of FrieslandCampina Europe, highlighted the company's commitment to aligning its resources more effectively. “The decision to divest the operations was not taken lightly. This step enables us to better align the European portfolio with our strategy to maximise the value of FrieslandCampina member milk, allowing us to focus our resources more effectively."

"At the same time, the intended transaction offers new growth opportunities for the Romanian business and the Napolact brand under the leadership of a partner with a stronger regional presence.”

Bonafarm Group’s CEO, Attila Csányi, welcomed the acquisition, noting the company's commitment to enhancing production quality and expanding operational capacity.

“We see a great opportunity to build the company and the Napolact brand together in the future,” Csányi remarked, indicating plans for investment in the production facilities and a focus on maintaining strong relationships with commercial and supplier partners.

The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval from Romanian competition authorities, is anticipated to be finalised by the end of December 2025. It includes FrieslandCampina's stake in the Romanian entity, which employs approximately 400 staff members at its two production sites.

As FrieslandCampina pivots towards optimising its European operations, this sale marks a significant shift in its strategy, allowing the company to concentrate on markets where it can leverage its strengths and enhance the value of its member milk.

Meanwhile, Bonafarm Group's acquisition positions it for further growth in the Romanian dairy sector, promising potential benefits for both companies in a rapidly evolving market landscape.