The boards of representatives of dairy cooperatives Arla and DMK Group, both of which are increasingly moving into the dairy alternatives sector, have voted in favour of a planned merger.
According to the companies, the merger will unite Arla’s international reach and innovation expertise with DMK Group’s strong product portfolio and know-how. Following the approval of the cooperatives’ decision-making bodies, the intended merger will now be subject to regulatory approval. This process is expected to conclude in Q1 2026, and the companies will continue to operate as separate entities in the meantime.
If the merger is successful, the new entity will carry the Arla Foods name and will be headquartered in Viby J, Denmark. Jan Toft Nørgaard will serve as Chair and Peder Tuborgh as CEO, while Ingo Müller will join the Arla executive management team as EVP of post-merger integration.
“I would like to thank my fellow owners for their active participation,” said Jan Toft Nørgaard, Chair of Arla Foods. “The approval of the decision-making bodies confirms our shared belief that Arla and DMK Group are stronger together.”
Arla first entered the plant-based milk sector in 2020 with the launch of oat milk brand JÖRD in Denmark and the UK. However, the brand was recently withdrawn from UK retail, as Arla announced its intention to focus on food service.
Additionally, the company launched a plant-based version of its premium Danish butter brand Lurpak last year, despite some backlash from its farmer-owners.
DMK also offers a variety of plant-based products, including alternatives to cheese, spreads, sour cream, and yogurt, along with vegan desserts and infant meals. It remains to be seen how the merger will affect the plant-based ranges offered by the companies.
“The approval of our cooperative members is a strong sign,” said Ingo Müller, CEO of DMK Group. “It shows that we live the cooperative idea and believe in joining forces to become even stronger. And that we are ready to take responsibility. For our businesses. For the next generation of farmers. And for the supply of high-quality food to consumers – here in Germany, but also far beyond.”
