Arla has become owner of two cheese plants in Russia through its merger with DMK Group. The merger took effect on June 1 2026 after EU approval in May.
The merger between Arla and German DMK Group was approved by EU competition authorities in late May. It brings together 11 200 milk farmers and 28 800 employees in seven countries with headquarters in Viby Denmark.
Arla had previously withdrawn from Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. DMK however continued cheese production in the Voronezh region. Arla has now pledged to address the operations.
Cecilia Kocken Arla Sweden CEO states that the company's stance on Russia remains unchanged. Concrete decisions on the future can be made only now that the merger has been completed.
