Amersfoort, the Netherlands, Nov 2 - The European Commission has given its approval for the acquisition of the Yogho! Yogho! and Choco! Choco! brands by the Belgian dairy co-operative Inza cvba (a subsidiary of Milcobel cvba) from Royal FrieslandCampina.
The transaction was finalised on 31 October 2009 and concerns the Yogho! Yogho! and Choco! Choco! brands in the European Union, including the product recipes and associated commercial operations. The acquisition will not effect employment of staff. FrieslandCampina will receive a license from Inza to use the Yogho! Yogho! brand within the European Union, but excluding the Benelux. Outside the European Union FrieslandCampina will continue to own both brands.
Inza produces and markets long-life milk, dairy drinks and functional foods. Both brands fit perfectly into Inza’s strategy and product portfolio. FrieslandCampina will continue to manufacture the products for Inza during a transition period.
The European Commission approved the merger between Friesland Foods and Campina in December 2008, subject to the sale of the fresh dairy activities in Nijkerk, the cheese production plant in Bleskensgraaf and the Yogho! Yogho! and Choco! Choco! brands to prevent FrieslandCampina dominating the Dutch / Belgian market.