In a move to streamline its operations, General Mills has finalised the sale of its US yogurt business to Lactalis Group. This divestiture encompasses several well-known yogurt brands, including Yoplait, Go-Gurt, Oui, Mountain High and :ratio, along with manufacturing facilities located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and Reed City, Michigan.

The US yogurt segment contributed approximately $1.2 billion to General Mills’ net sales in fiscal 2025, reflecting its significant role in the company’s portfolio. The decision to divest this business aligns with General Mills' broader strategy to focus on its core brands and optimise its operational structure.

The proceeds from the sale are earmarked for share repurchases and debt reduction, signalling a commitment to enhancing shareholder value and maintaining financial stability.

This transaction marks a notable shift in the competitive landscape of the yogurt market, which has seen increasing consolidation in recent years. Lactalis, known for its extensive dairy offerings, is expected to leverage its expertise to expand the reach of these brands in both domestic and international markets.

Lactalis USA has established a new division, Midwest Yogurt, to oversee the acquired brands and operations. Esteve Torrens, CEO of Lactalis USA, said: “This acquisition advances our US growth strategy and strengthens our position as an emerging leader in the US yogurt market. Incorporating the popular Yoplait brand into our house of US dairy product brands will create important, new opportunities for growth and product innovation, as well as positive impacts for our customers, communities and employees.”

Kerry DeLaney, CEO of Lactalis Midwest Yogurt, added: “The Yoplait team looks forward to an exciting future as part of Lactalis USA. By leveraging Lactalis’ expertise and dairy know-how, we will grow our portfolio of brands that consumers love and trust”.

General Mills, which reported fiscal 2025 net sales of $19 billion, has been actively pursuing initiatives to innovate and strengthen its brand portfolio.