French dairy giant Lactalis has announced plans to close its Longwarry dairy factory in Victoria, Australia, by early 2027, marking the second Australian plant closure this year as the company continues to streamline its manufacturing network following its acquisition of Fonterra’s consumer business.
The Longwarry facility, acquired by Lactalis in 2019, produces specialty dairy ingredients, milk powders and other dairy products. The company said the decision follows a comprehensive review of its manufacturing footprint and reflects operational realities, including surplus processing capacity after the Fonterra acquisition and reduced milk availability in Victoria.
Production from the site will be transferred to the nearby Darnum plant and other Lactalis facilities across Australia. The closure will affect 53 permanent employees, along with casual workers, with the company committing to a consultation and transition process.
The move follows Lactalis’ earlier decision to close its historic South Brisbane milk factory in 2026 and underscores the ongoing consolidation of Australia’s dairy processing sector as processors seek greater operational efficiency amid changing milk supply dynamics. (Just Food)
Source: Dairynews7x7 27 July, 2026 Read full story here
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