FrieslandCampina to acquire Wisconsin Whey Protein in strategic expansion of global protein business

Royal FrieslandCampina is to acquire US-based Wisconsin Whey Protein for an undisclosed sum.
Royal FrieslandCampina is to acquire US-based Wisconsin Whey Protein (Royal FrieslandCampina)

FrieslandCampina, the international dairy company, is to acquire US-based Wisconsin Whey Protein, to scale its business into the North American market.

It has unveiled its intention to acquire the producer of whey protein isolates although financial details of the deal are not being disclosed.

The acquisition forms part of FrieslandCampina’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a global leader in the protein market.

Once the deal is completed, Wisconsin Whey Protein will become part of FrieslandCampina Ingredients, which will significantly increase its total whey protein capacity to meet rising global demand for high-quality protein ingredients.

Wisconsin Whey Protein’s modern facilities are currently undergoing expansion, which will more than double its whey protein isolate capacity.

Anne Peter Lindeboom, President of FrieslandCampina Ingredients, said: “By joining forces with Wisconsin Whey Protein, a respected producer of high-quality whey isolates with a strong focus on production and innovation, we bring together expanded capacity in the United States with our deep expertise in protein technology, research and application development.

“The acquisition will enable us to scale our proven successes in high-end protein offerings to customers in the United States and worldwide. All in the pursuit of providing nutritional solutions that meet both consumer preferences and needs, to help people get the most out of life, always.”

Wisconsin Whey Protein’s founder and Chief Executive Officer K Kachadurian added: “There’s a natural fit between Wisconsin Whey Protein’s entrepreneurial spirit and FrieslandCampina Ingredients’ global growth ambition. I’m proud that our team will become part of such a purpose-driven company—one making a meaningful impact.”

With the intended acquisition, FrieslandCampina will also enter into a collaboration with Stainless Technologies, a sister company of Wisconsin Whey Protein that builds state-of-the-art process technology solutions.

The transaction is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approvals.

Last month it was revealed that FrieslandCampina UK&I managing director Will Jones is to depart the business at the end of the 2025.

He is being replaced by Bob Mulder, sales director at FrieslandCampina Consumer Dairy Netherlands.