Top 10 Dairy Companies in Europe in 2025 | Expert Market Research

The Europe dairy market reached a value of USD 169.38 billion in 2024. The market is further expected to grow at a CAGR of about 1.40% in the forecast period of 2024-2032 to reach a value of USD 194.64 billion by 2032. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the growing population and increasing cheese demand.

In 2022, the European Union produced an estimated 160.0 million tonnes of raw milk, primarily sourced from cows. Cow milk accounted for 96 % of the overall milk production. The majority of this production was directed to dairies, with only 9.8 million tonnes utilised on farms for various purposes. Of the milk delivered to dairies, approximately 145.6 million tonnes consisted of cows' milk, while the remainder included milk from other sources such as ewes, goats, or buffalos. Further, Germany holds the largest share in terms of cow mill collection in the European Union (EU), accounting for 22.0%. This was followed by France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Portugal, accounting for 16.6%, 9.6%, 9.0% and 8.8%, respectively.

Further, a growing population and increasing tourism in Europe are fueling the growth of the Europe dairy market. Products like European cheese and butter have a heightened demand among both locals and foreigners. According to the World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, the International tourism, number of arrivals in the European Union accounted for 968.87 million in 2019.

Latest Updates on Top Dairy Companies in Europe:

In March 2025, King Island Dairy, renowned for its gourmet cheeses, has been acquired by King Island Dairy 2 Pty Ltd, owned by businessmen Nick Dobromilsky and Graeme Wilson. This acquisition preserves approximately 60 jobs on King Island. The new owners' plans for the brand have yet to be disclosed.

In March 2025, Cottage cheese has experienced a surge in popularity across Australia, driven by viral TikTok recipes highlighting its high protein content and versatility in dishes like dips and ice cream. This trend has led to a national shortage, prompting supermarkets and producers to increase supply to meet the heightened demand.

In February 2025, Israeli company Remilk is set to construct the world's largest fermentation facility in Denmark, dedicated to producing animal-free dairy proteins. Spanning over 750,000 square feet in the Kalundborg Eco-industrial Park, this facility aims to revolutionize dairy production by offering sustainable and ethical alternatives to traditional dairy products.

In July 2023, the Russian government seized control of Danone's operations in the country, placing them under the Russian Federal Agency for State Property Management. This move came amid escalating geopolitical tensions, significantly impacting Danone's business interests in the region.

Top 10 Leading Dairy Companies in Europe | Market Leaders

1. Nestle SA

The company is one of the leading players in the food and beverage industry. It offers products in various segments such as prepared dishes, nutrition and science, powered and liquid beverages, milk products, and pet care. The company has a workforce of 270,000 employees in 2023 and sells its products in 188 countries. Nestle operates through more than 340 factories located in 77 countries. The company earned a revenue of CHF 92.998 billion in 2023  and is listed on SIX Swiss Exchange (SWX) under the symbol of NESN.

2. Danone S.A.

Danone S.A. is a leading food and beverage conglomerate operating through four segments including Essential Dairy and Plant-Based Products, Water, Early Life and Medical Nutrition. It is present in more than 120 markets worldwide and employs more than 10,000 people. The company is listed on Euronext Paris (EPA), also known as, the Paris Stock Exchange, under the symbol of BN.  The company offers products under three segments, namely, preserve and regenerate nature, progress and lead health through food, and thriving people and communities. The company’s turnover reached EUR 27.6 billion in 2023.

3. Groupe Lactalis S.A.

Lactalis International, also known as Lactalis Group, has a presence across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and French Overseas Territories. With headquarters in Choisy-le-Roi, France, and over 10 global locations, the company has a portfolio of over 2,000 dairy products, meeting diverse customer needs. Maintaining high-quality standards, the company exports over 17,000 containers annually to 100+ countries, reflecting its commitment to global excellence.

4. Royal FrieslandCampina N.V.

Royal FrieslandCampina N.V., also known as FrieslandCampina, is a renowned dairy giant with over 150 years of cooperative history. The cooperative is owned by 14,634 dairy farmers across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The company produces a diverse range of dairy products and ingredients and caters to various consumer groups and professional customers worldwide. With a workforce of 20,928 employees and operations in 29 countries, FrieslandCampina exports to over 100 nations.

5. Arla Foods amba

Arla Foods Amba company known as Arla is a dairy cooperative owned by 8,492 farmers. It holds a conservative capital structure in line with that of a strong investment-grade company. As one of the largest dairy cooperatives globally, Arla serves millions of individuals with nutritious products while upholding a commitment to sustainable practices.

6. Unilever PLC

Unilever PLC is a British multinational fast-moving consumer goods company, offering a diverse range of products in beauty and wellbeing, personal care, home care, nutrition, and ice cream. The company has a workforce of over 128,000 employees, with a presence in 190 countries. The company has over 280 operational factories and over 57,000 suppliers in 150 countries.

7. DMK Deutsches Milchkontor GmbH.

DMK Deutsches Milchkontor GmbH, also known as DMK, is Germany’s top dairy cooperative that specializes in producing premium-quality food products. The company has over 6,600 employees across Germany, the Netherlands, and international hubs. Its diverse portfolio includes cheese, dairy items, vegan alternatives, baby food, and whey products, under trusted brands like MILRAM and Oldenburger. As a key supplier to the German food retail industry, the DMK Group has solidified its position as one of Europe’s leading dairy enterprises, known for delivering excellence in dairy products.

8. Sodiaal International SA.

Sodiaal, France's premier dairy cooperative, unites 16,000 breeders and employees 9,000 people. It operates in 60 processing sites across France, including renowned brands like Candia, Entremont, Yoplait, Les Fromageries Occitanes, Monts & Terroirs, Les Fromageries de Blâmont, Renard Gillard, Siffert Frech, Nutribio, Nutri' Babig, Eurosérum, Bonilait, Sodiaal Union and Sodiaal International. The corporation’s mission extends beyond profit, aiming to boost agricultural vitality and provide consumers with wholesome, responsible dairy products.

9. Savencia S.A.

Savencia is a renowned family food group. It has a workforce of 25,212 employees around the world. The company sells its products in 120 countries. Guided by its mission, "Leading the way to better food," Savencia prioritizes innovation and quality across its retail, food service, and industrial offerings. With its subsidiaries, Savencia Fromage and Dairy and Savencia Gourmet, the group offers an array of iconic brands in dairy, chocolate, and premium gastronomy.

10. Müller Group

Müller Group is a 100% family-owned company. The company employes 32,300 employees in 18 locations across Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, and the United Kingdom. The company offers dairy products like Müller dairy, Weihenstephan, Saxony milk, Almhof, Loose, Harzbube, Bonsel, mwi ingredients, Muller UK, Müller Asia, Pragolactos, Rusack, TMA, and Müller Int.