The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Froneri and Grupo Herdez have announced a strategic partnership to develop and expand the ice cream category in Mexico.

As part of the agreement, Grupo Herdez will integrate its ice cream operations, run under an exclusive licence from Nestlé since 2015, into the new partnership structure. The portfolio includes well-established brands such as Helados Nestlé, Häagen-Dazs, Mega and Carlos V.

Brand licensing in Mexico will be aligned with Froneri’s global framework with Nestlé, enabling the business to leverage international innovation pipelines, operational standards and category expertise.

Under the terms of the deal, Froneri will contribute capital to strengthen the business and support future growth. Grupo Herdez will transfer full operational control to Froneri, allowing the company to implement its specialised ice cream operating model.

The transaction will not generate immediate cash proceeds for Grupo Herdez but is positioned as a long-term value creation move within its broader portfolio strategy.

Phil Griffin, CEO of Froneri, said: "We are thrilled to be partnering with Grupo Herdez to unlock the significant potential of their ice cream business in Mexico. The business operates under a portfolio of much- loved brands which we plan to invest in to further develop the business. We look forward to working with the Grupo Herdez team."

Héctor Hernández-Pons Torres, chairman of the board and CEO of Grupo Herdez agreed, adding: "This alliance marks the next step in the configuration of our portfolio, and we are proud to share the potential of this business with a global expert like Froneri. The focus of this alliance will remain on long-term value creation."

The transaction remains subject to approval by Mexico’s competition authority, the National Antitrust Commission (CNA), alongside customary closing conditions. Completion is expected later this year.