Last week, dairy giant Fonterra was in the news for agreeing to sell its global Consumer and associated businesses to French dairy company Lactalis for NZ$3.845 billion, with potential to increase to NZ$4.22 billion after settling a dispute with Bega Cheese over Australian licenses. The sale includes major brands like Mainland and Anchor, as well as the Foodservice and Ingredients businesses in Oceania, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Africa. Fonterra plans to return around NZ$3.2 billion to its farmer shareholders and continue supplying milk to the divested brands under a long-term supply agreement. This strategic divestment allows Fonterra to focus more on its Ingredients and Foodservice businesses for long-term growth and shareholder value. The deal is subject to regulatory and shareholder approval, with a vote expected in late October or early November and settlement anticipated in the first half of 2026. Meanwhile, Greenpeace has criticized Fonterra over accusations of misleading grass-fed claims on its Anchor butter packaging.