The dairy industry is a global powerhouse, providing essential nutrients for billions of people worldwide.

From creamy yogurts to melt-in-your-mouth cheese, dairy products are a staple in many cultures.

But who are the key players shaping this vast industry?

This article dives into the top 20 dairy companies, exploring their global reach, product offerings, and impact on the market.

List of Top 20 Dairy Companies

The dairy industry is dominated by a mix of established powerhouses and emerging players.

Here’s a closer look at the top 20 dairy companies, ranked by their dairy revenue:

1. Nestlé (Switzerland)

Nestlé, a global giant in food and beverages, holds a leading position in the dairy industry.

Its portfolio boasts iconic brands like Milo, Carnation, and Nido, offering a diverse range of dairy products, from milk and yogurts to nutritious infant formulas and indulgent ice creams.

Nestle Dairy leverages its global reach and innovation to deliver high-quality dairy products to consumers worldwide, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.

2. Lactalis (France)

Lactalis, a French multinational, reigns supreme as the world’s largest dairy company.

Founded in 1933, it boasts a diverse portfolio encompassing cheese, milk, cream, butter, and more. Renowned brands like Président, Parmalat, and Siggi’s yogurt fall under its umbrella.

Lactalis prioritizes international expansion, with a presence in over 100 countries. They champion sustainable practices and cater to evolving consumer preferences with innovative dairy products.

3. Danone (France)

Danone, a leading French multinational food and beverage company, boasts a strong presence in the global dairy market.

Renowned for its commitment to health and sustainability, Danone offers a diverse portfolio of dairy products like yogurts (Activia, Oikos), fresh milk beverages, and dairy-based desserts.

With a focus on innovation and regional preferences, Danone caters to consumers worldwide, making it a trusted name for delicious and nutritious dairy options.

4. Yili Group (China)

Yili Group, a leading contender in the global dairy industry, reigns supreme in Asia.

Based in China, this powerhouse boasts a diverse product portfolio, including yogurts (Ambrosial), ice creams (QQstar), and milk powders.

Recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation, Yili has secured numerous awards and enjoys immense brand loyalty within China.

With a global reach extending beyond Asia, Yili is a key player in shaping the future of the dairy landscape.

5. Fonterra (New Zealand)

Fonterra, a world leader in dairy exports, is a New Zealand cooperative owned by thousands of farmers.

They specialize in milk powder, cheese, and butter, supplying high-quality dairy products to consumers worldwide.

Known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, Fonterra plays a crucial role in shaping the global dairy landscape.

This New Zealand giant offers a diverse product range, ensuring a delicious taste of dairy excellence in every corner of the world.

6. Mengniu Dairy (China)

Mengniu Dairy, a leading player in China’s booming dairy industry, offers a vast array of nutritious and delicious dairy products.

From its iconic Milk Deluxe to popular yogurt brands like Just Yoghurt and Telunsu, Mengniu caters to diverse consumer preferences.

The company prioritizes high-quality ingredients and innovative products, solidifying its position as a frontrunner in China’s dairy market.

This overview explores Mengniu’s journey, product portfolio, and impact on the Chinese consumer landscape.

7. Arla Foods (Denmark)

Arla Foods, a Danish-Swedish dairy cooperative, is a powerhouse in the global dairy industry.

Ranking as the world’s largest dairy company by milk volume, Arla offers a diverse range of high-quality products like cheese (Lurpak, Castello), milk, and yogurt.

With a focus on sustainability and farmer ownership, Arla is a trusted brand enjoyed by consumers worldwide.

8. FrieslandCampina (Netherlands)

FrieslandCampina, a Dutch multinational dairy cooperative, stands as a leading force in the global market.

Established through mergers of regional cooperatives, it boasts a rich heritage and a commitment to quality.

From creamy cheeses like Dutch Lady to nutritious infant formula like Friso, FrieslandCampina offers a diverse range of dairy products enjoyed by consumers worldwide.

This cooperative prioritizes sustainability and empowers its member dairy farmers, solidifying its position as a responsible and innovative leader in the dairy industry.

9. Saputo (Canada)

Saputo Dairy, a leading player in the global dairy industry, hails from Canada.

Founded in 1954, this family-owned business has grown into a cheese powerhouse, boasting a diverse portfolio of dairy products.

From mozzarella to yogurt and dairy alternatives, Saputo caters to a wide range of consumer preferences.

With a strong presence in North and South America, Europe, and the Middle East, Saputo’s commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its position as a global dairy leader.

10. Unilever (UK/Netherlands)

Unilever, a leading consumer goods giant, holds a surprising position in the dairy industry.

While not solely focused on dairy, Unilever boasts a strong presence through iconic ice cream brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Magnum, and Breyers.

Their portfolio extends beyond frozen treats, encompassing dairy alternatives and exploring lactose-free options.

This overview dives into Unilever’s dairy offerings, highlighting its commitment to indulgence and innovation within the ever-evolving dairy landscape.

11. Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (India)

Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF), popularly known as Amul, is India’s largest dairy cooperative, empowering millions of farmers and delighting consumers with its diverse range of dairy products.

From fresh milk and cheese to ice cream and ghee, Amul stands for quality, innovation, and a commitment to fair prices for farmers.

This iconic brand represents the success story of India’s cooperative movement, making it a household name across the nation.

12. Savencia (France)

Savencia Fromage & Dairy, often shortened to Savencia, is a major player in the global dairy industry, renowned for its specialty cheeses and high-value-added dairy ingredients.

This French independent family group, listed on Euronext Paris, ranks as the world’s #5 cheese manufacturer and the #2 cheese group in France.

Savencia boasts a strong international presence, offering a diverse range of cheeses, creams, butter, and functional dairy ingredients to consumers and food manufacturers worldwide.

Their commitment to quality and innovation ensures a delicious and trusted dairy experience.

13. Müller (Germany)

Müller, a powerhouse German dairy company, has carved a reputation for delicious yogurts, fresh milk, and delightful desserts.

Founded in 1941, Müller’s success stems from its commitment to quality ingredients, innovative products, and a diverse portfolio.

From its iconic Müller Corner yogurts to its creamy milk and indulgent desserts, Müller caters to a wide range of taste preferences.

With a presence across Europe and beyond, Müller continues to be a driving force in the global dairy industry.

14. Agropur (Canada)

Agropur, a leading North American dairy cooperative, champions quality and innovation.

Founded in 1938, it empowers over 3,000 dairy farmers and offers a diverse range of products, including cheese, butter, milk, yogurt, and ice cream.

Agropur’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its products, fostering sustainable practices and community development.

From iconic brands like Natrel and Olympic to its international presence, Agropur is a force to be reckoned with in the global dairy landscape.

15. Schreiber Foods (USA)

Schreiber Foods, a powerhouse in the dairy industry, has been delighting consumers worldwide for over 100 years.

Renowned for its high-quality cheese and delectable desserts, Schreiber boasts popular brands like Sargento and Schreiber.

Their commitment to innovation extends beyond delicious products, with a focus on sustainability and responsible sourcing practices.

From creamy cheeses to decadent desserts, Schreiber Foods continues to be a leader in the global dairy market.

16. Sodiaal (France)

Sodiaal, a leading French dairy cooperative, champions quality and farmer empowerment.

Owned by over 16,000 dairy producers, Sodiaal processes a significant portion of France’s milk supply.

The cooperative boasts renowned brands like Yoplait yogurt and Candia milk, enjoyed worldwide.

Sodiaal prioritizes sustainable practices and supports PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheeses, preserving regional heritage.

Committed to innovation, Sodiaal offers a diverse range of dairy products, from cheese and butter to ice cream, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

17. DMK Group (Germany)

DMK Group, a German dairy cooperative, stands tall as a leading player in the European dairy industry.

Founded in 2011 through the merger of two prominent companies, DMK boasts a network of over 7,800 employees and partnerships with 5,200 farmers.

Their commitment to quality shines through their diverse product range, encompassing milk, cheese, ice cream, and even baby food.

Recognized brands like MILRAM and Oldenburger solidify DMK’s position as a trusted provider of delicious and nutritious dairy products across Europe and beyond.

18. Froneri (UK)

Froneri, the world’s second-largest ice cream manufacturer, reigns supreme in Europe and is rapidly expanding globally.

Headquartered in England, this powerhouse emerged in 2016 through the merger of R&R Ice Cream and Nestlé’s ice cream division.

Froneri boasts iconic brands like Häagen-Dazs, Magnum, and Walls, offering a delightful variety of ice cream flavors and formats to satisfy every craving.

They’re committed to innovation and cater to evolving consumer preferences, making Froneri a force to be reckoned with in the global frozen dessert landscape.

19. Glanbia (Ireland)

Glanbia, a prominent player in the global dairy industry, boasts a rich heritage and a diversified portfolio.

Headquartered in Ireland, Glanbia operates across two key segments: Glanbia Nutritionals and Glanbia Ireland.

Glanbia Nutritionals is a world leader in cheese and high-quality whey protein ingredients, catering to the nutritional and functional food industries.

Glanbia Ireland, on the other hand, focuses on the Irish dairy market, offering a wide range of dairy products like milk, butter, and cheese under popular brands.

With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Glanbia remains a force to be reckoned with in the ever-evolving dairy landscape.

20. Land O’Lakes (USA)

Land O’Lakes, a name synonymous with quality dairy products in the US, boasts a rich history dating back to 1921.

This farmer-owned cooperative, headquartered in Minnesota, revolutionized the butter industry by introducing fresh, sweet cream butter in individual sticks.

Today, Land O’Lakes offers a vast array of dairy products, from butter and cheese to milk and ice cream.

Committed to innovation and sustainability, Land O’Lakes remains a leading force in the American dairy industry.