Top 10 Cheese-Producing Companies: Global Leaders Redefining Dairy Innovation
The global cheese industry is an integral part of the food and beverage sector, contributing significantly to global trade, culinary innovation, and economic activity. In 2023, the market was valued at $187.42 billion and is projected to grow to $287.12 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 4.61%. This growth reflects evolving consumer tastes, increased culinary applications, and expanding global demand.
While cheese-producing countries rely on regional traditions and natural resources, the success of cheese-producing companies hinges on corporate strategy, adaptability, and scale. From embracing sustainable practices to adopting cutting-edge technology, these companies lead the way in shaping the future of cheese production.
This article explores the Top 10 Cheese-Producing Companies and highlights key trends driving the industry forward.
| Top 10 Cheese-Producing Companies
1. Lactalis Group (France)
Annual Revenue: €22 billion (2022)
As the world’s largest dairy producer, Lactalis owns iconic brands like Président, Galbani, and Parmalat. With a diverse portfolio and a strong focus on sustainable production, Lactalis is a global leader in both scale and innovation.
Key Brands: Président, Galbani, Parmalat
2. Nestlé (Switzerland)
Annual Revenue: $92 billion (2022, all segments)
Nestlé focuses on processed and specialty cheeses through brands like Buitoni. The company integrates innovation, health-conscious offerings, and sustainability into its strategy.
Key Brands: Buitoni, Carnation
3. Arla Foods (Denmark/Sweden)
Annual Revenue: €13.8 billion (2022)
A cooperative owned by dairy farmers, Arla leads the market with high-quality products like havarti and blue cheese. Arla has ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions and adopt renewable energy across its supply chain.
Key Brands: Castello, Lurpak
4. Fonterra (New Zealand)
Annual Revenue: $18 billion (2022)
Fonterra is a global leader in cheddar and mozzarella production, with a focus on sustainability and penetrating emerging markets like Asia and Africa.
Key Brands: Mainland, Perfect Italiano
5. Saputo Inc. (Canada)
Annual Revenue: $15 billion (2022)
Saputo is a major player in North America and Europe, producing cheeses across categories for both retail and foodservice. It invests heavily in sustainable practices and product innovation.
Key Brands: Cathedral City, Dairyland, Armstrong
6. FrieslandCampina (Netherlands)
Annual Revenue: €11 billion (2022)
Known for Dutch classics like gouda and edam, FrieslandCampina combines traditional expertise with modern lactose-free and functional cheeses.
Key Brands: Frico, Milner
7. Kraft Heinz (USA)
Annual Revenue: $26.5 billion (2022)
Kraft Heinz dominates the processed cheese market while expanding into organic and plant-based alternatives.
Key Brands: Kraft Singles, Velveeta
8. Bel Group (France)
Annual Revenue: €3.6 billion (2022)
Bel Group has revolutionized snack cheese with brands like Babybel and The Laughing Cow, emphasizing convenience and sustainability.
Key Brands: Babybel, The Laughing Cow, Boursin
9. Groupe Savencia (France)
Annual Revenue: €5.6 billion (2022)
Specializing in premium cheeses, Savencia serves high-end markets with products like Saint Agur and Alouette.
Key Brands: Saint Agur, Alouette
10. Dairy Farmers of America (USA)
Annual Revenue: $24 billion (2022)
DFA is a farmer-owned cooperative producing a wide range of cheeses for domestic and international markets.
Key Brands: Borden, Cache Valley
| Fresh Industry Trends Shaping the Cheese Market
Trend | Description |
The Role of Co-Ops | Cooperatives like Arla Foods and Dairy Farmers of America ensure fair pricing for farmers while achieving global scalability. Smaller producers can emulate this model for success. |
High-Tech Production | Precision fermentation, robotics, and blockchain are transforming production. Fonterra uses AI to optimize milk utilization, while Lactalis integrates IoT sensors to improve quality. |
Local Ingredients as a USP | Producers like FrieslandCampina and Granarolo leverage local milk sources to highlight authenticity, meeting consumer demand for regional identity in their products. |
Customizable Solutions | Foodservice demands tailored products. For instance, Saputo creates mozzarella for pizza chains, and FrieslandCampina offers gouda slices with extended shelf stability. |
Hybrid and Plant-Based Cheeses | Companies like Bel Group and Kraft Heinz are innovating with hybrid products that combine plant-based and traditional dairy elements, catering to a broader audience. |
Health-Driven Products | Demand for fortified and low-fat options is growing. Arla Foods offers low-fat havarti, while Nestléadds nutrients to processed cheeses. |
Export Challenges | Companies like Lactalis navigate trade tariffs and logistics in emerging markets. Platforms like uFoodin Marketplace simplify cross-border trade, reducing barriers for smaller producers. |
Cheese in Snacks and Desserts | Expanding into adjacent categories, like cheese crisps and mascarpone desserts, is driving revenue diversification. |
Sustainable Packaging | From recyclable materials to vacuum-sealed solutions, packaging innovation is critical. Bel Groupleads the way with plastic-free options. |
Year-Round Visibility | Digital platforms like uFoodin Marketplace ensure companies maintain visibility with global buyers beyond trade shows, providing year-round opportunities to showcase products. |
| Giants Leading the Way
The Top 10 Cheese-Producing Companies exemplify leadership through innovation, sustainability, and strategic global expansion. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, entering emerging markets, and responding to consumer preferences, these companies set the benchmark for success.
For smaller players, adopting scalable versions of these approaches—such as leveraging digital platforms for visibility, focusing on niche markets, or emphasizing sustainability—can help them thrive alongside industry giants. Platforms like uFoodin Marketplace empower producers by connecting them directly with global buyers and offering tools for year-round engagement.
As the global cheese industry expands toward $287 billion, the combination of tradition with innovation will define its future.
