General Mills, a prominent U.S.-based food company known for brands like Yoplait and Cheerios, has received approval from the U.S. Department of Justice for the sale of its yogurt business to French dairy giant Lactalis. The $1 billion deal, finalized in Minnesota, is expected to enhance Lactalis’ position in North America’s dairy market and marks another major consolidation in the global dairy sector. With regulatory hurdles cleared, both companies aim to strategically focus on core markets and long-term growth.
On June 6, 2025, General Mills, the Minneapolis, Minnesota-based multinational food corporation known for iconic brands like Yoplait, Häagen-Dazs, and Cheerios, announced the finalization of a major transaction with Lactalis, a leading French dairy group. The deal involves the sale of General Mills’ U.S. yogurt business to Lactalis for a reported $1 billion, following formal approval from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
This green light confirms that the transaction does not pose any competition concerns in the U.S. dairy market. The yogurt division transfer will enable General Mills to streamline operations and focus on its core product segments and international growth opportunities.
Meanwhile, the acquisition significantly enhances Lactalis’ reach in the North American yogurt market. The French dairy powerhouse, already the world’s largest dairy company, strengthens its presence in the U.S., further advancing its global expansion strategy.
Industry analysts highlight this move as part of a broader consolidation trend in the dairy sector. With increased competition and evolving consumer preferences, companies are recalibrating their portfolios to remain competitive and profitable.
A spokesperson from General Mills noted that the decision aligns with the company’s long-term business vision, allowing it to reinvest in growth areas with higher returns. Lactalis, on the other hand, sees the acquisition as a key milestone in building its brand strength and distribution network across the North American continent.
This billion-dollar transaction not only reshapes the U.S. yogurt landscape but also signals continued shifts in global dairy market dynamics as key players position themselves for the future.
