The New Zealand Overseas Investment Office has approved a2 Milk Company’s proposed acquisition of 75 per cent of dairy nutrition company Mataura Valley Milk.
A2MC announced the bid in August 2020, saying it would build the company’s infant nutrition capacity, allowing it to manufacture nutritional products and diversity.
The company said the move would strengthen relationships with partners in China, as part of the deal sees MVM’s major shareholder China Husbandry Group (CAHG) retaining 25 per cent interest in the company.
CAHG is also a wholly owned subsidiary of China National Agricultural Development Group Co, which is also the parent company of a2MC’s strategic logistics and distribution partner in China CSFA Holdings Shanghai (China State Farm).
The deal is expected to be completed by the end of the month.
New CMO announced
Edith Bailey has been announced as a2MC’s new CMO. Her most recent role was at Danone Nutricia’s Specialised Nutrition division, where she had worked in a number of senior marketing roles for 14 years. A2MC said Bailey has significant experience in the infant nutrition category across China, New Zealand, Australia and South-East Asia.
“In her most recent role, Edith was responsible for leading the development of the overall portfolio strategy for ANZ Specialised Nutrition, including the acceleration of the innovation pipeline and capability,” a2MC CEO David Bortolussi said.
She will be responsible for managing the a2 brand, developing integrated marketing programs and leading consumer insights and product innovation.