Danone has reached an agreement to acquire Australian food manufacturer Made Group, a move that strengthens the French company’s presence in the fast-growing high-protein food and beverage market across the Asia-Pacific region as consumer demand for healthier nutrition continues to rise.
Made Group is best known for brands including Cocobella coconut water, yoghurt products and Rokeby protein smoothies. The business generated more than €300 million (about US$344 million) in sales in the financial year ending June 2026, supported by strong double-digit growth across its portfolio.
The acquisition, whose financial terms were not disclosed, forms part of Danone’s strategy to expand through targeted investments in health-focused nutrition businesses. Brandspur Brand News understands that the company expects the transaction to strengthen its essential dairy and plant-based operations in Asia-Pacific while contributing positively to earnings and operating margins from the first year after completion.
Demand for protein-rich products has accelerated globally, driven by growing consumer interest in healthier diets and increased use of weight-loss medications that encourage higher protein intake to help preserve muscle mass. The trend has prompted major food manufacturers to increase investments in protein-based products and nutrition-focused brands.
Alongside the Made Group deal, Danone will also acquire the remaining 49 per cent stake in its fresh dairy joint venture with Saputo Dairy Australia, giving the company full ownership of the business and greater operational flexibility in the Australian market. Both transactions are expected to close during the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
The acquisition follows a series of portfolio changes by Danone, including its investment in meal nutrition company Huel earlier this year and the previous acquisition of U.S.-based Kate Farms. The company is also divesting its 23 per cent shareholding in Lifeway Foods in the United States as it reshapes its global business around faster-growing, health-oriented food categories.
