DANONE EXPANDS IN AUSTRALIA WITH MADE GROUP ACQUISITION

Danone has announced the acquisition of Australia’s MADE Group, adding Rokeby Farms’ protein dairy drinks and Cocobella coconut water to its portfolio. The move strengthens Danone’s footprint in Australia and New Zealand, aligning with global demand for protein and plant-based nutrition, and follows its recent buyout of Saputo’s local dairy operations.

Danone has taken another decisive step in strengthening its presence in the Asia Pacific region with the acquisition of Australia’s MADE Group, a company known for its focus on protein, dairy and plant-based beverages. The deal will see MADE’s Rokeby Farms protein dairy drinks and Cocobella coconut water integrated into Danone’s global portfolio, further consolidating the French multinational’s position in health-driven food and beverage categories.  

Since its creation, MADE Group has concentrated on nutrition-focused offerings, reflecting consumer trends in developed markets where protein, dairy and plant-based products have become increasingly mainstream. This acquisition underscores Danone’s strategy to align with shifting global demands for healthier, functional beverages and nutritional products.  

Australia is playing a growing role in Danone’s operations. The purchase comes shortly after Danone completed the buyout of Saputo’s Australian fresh dairy business, adding to its expanding footprint across both Australia and New Zealand. The country’s dairy sector continues to attract significant overseas investment, with Dairy Australia reporting that exports in 2024–2025 exceeded A$4 billion, highlighting the industry’s importance to regional and global markets.  

Danone’s global sales in 2025 reached $31.5 billion, with the largest share derived from specialised nutrition, protein drinks and plant-based beverages across more than 120 countries. The MADE acquisition marks only the second time this year that Danone has bought another business to strengthen its nutritional food portfolio, following its earlier purchase of Huel, the UK’s largest producer of nutritional food products.  

The Asia Pacific region, encompassing markets such as China, Japan, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia and Indonesia, has become a global driver for high-protein foods and health-oriented beverages. Reports consistently point to rising demand for these categories, fuelled by consumer interest in functional nutrition and healthier lifestyles. By investing in Australia, Danone aims to establish greater influence and leadership in this dynamic market, positioning itself to meet the growing appetite for health-driven products worldwide.  

While Danone has not specified timelines for the completion of the MADE Group purchase, the move reflects its broader ambition to expand its nutritional portfolio and reinforce its global leadership in health-focused food and beverage innovation. The acquisition not only strengthens Danone’s operational base in Australia but also signals its commitment to shaping the future of nutrition in a region increasingly central to global food trends.