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

Sabelli has signed an agreement with fellow Italian dairy group Mila Cooperative to acquire the Stella Bianca cheese company. In a statement sent to FoodBev, Mila confirmed the sale of its shares in Stella Bianca after 14 years. A spokesperson for the cooperative explained that in recent years, Mila’s core businesses in yogurt and cut cheese have seen growth, prompting the implementation of a strategy to support further developments in these categories in the coming years. “The cash flows generated by the sale of Stella Bianca will enable Mila to make important investments in the automation and digitisation of its plants, and as part of the sustainability strategy that our company is pursuing,” the spokesperson added. Based in Lodi, Italy, Stella Bianca specialises in the production of fresh cheeses made with 100% Italian milk, including stracchino, robiola, goats cheese and cream cheese. It also offers a range of vegan and gluten-free yogurt alternatives made with Italian rice flour. The company supplies its own branded products, as well as private label solutions. According to multiple sources, the transaction – for which terms were undisclosed – is expected to close by the end of June this year.