Dutch partner raises investment in Alaska Milk

CEBU, Philippines - FrieslandCampina, a Dutch dairy cooperative which has been a partner of Alaska Milk Corporation for 40 years now, strengthened their ties through the increased investment of FrieslandCampina in Alaska Milk.

For Alaska Milk, their partnership presents a host of possibilities as FrieslandCampina brings to the table a portfolio of dairy products ranging from raw material ingredients to value-added dairy products such as infant formula, cheese, butter and yoghurt among others. This would also afford Alaska Milk to compete globally through the possible distribution of Alaska Milk products outside the Philippines.

With the agreement, the two companies will also have an exchange of best manufacturing and marketing practices including the exchange of talents. The increased investment will “usher in an era of unprecedented development for the domestic dairy market” in terms of transfer of technology, research and development and will elevate food and security awareness in the country.

Their partnership dates back four decades when in 1972, the first can of Alaska evaporated milk was produced in the country through the collaboration of the Uytengsu family and the Dutch dairy cooperative.

Royal FrieslandCampina is the leading dairy company in Netherlands and ranks fifth among the largest dairy company in the world. It currently employs 19,000 people in 25 countries with products sold in more than 100 countries.

“We expect this historical agreement to propel Alaska Milk to its next stage growth and the products developed by FrieslandCampina will strengthen our position in all dairy categories. The intended integration will provide Alaska Milk with access to an international dairy company,” said Wilfred Steven Uytengsu, president and chief executive officer of Alaska Milk.

For 40 years, Alaska has shown leadership in the liquid canned milk category, a strong position in the powered milk and value-added milk products such as ready to drink milks and ready-to-use products. Recently, Alaska expanded to include the non-dairy coffee creamer and sterilized milk segment.

Alaska and FrieslandCampina are committed to lead the growth of the domestic dairy market as they share the same passion in providing consumers with affordable and world-class products.

“My heart remains here and I will continue to lead the management team of Alaska Milk for the foreseeable future,” said Uytengsu.  (FREEMAN)