Danone has offered to acquire the remaining stock of kefir products maker Lifeway Foods for $283 million, or $25 a share. Danone currently owns 23.4% of Lifeway’s common shares. The offer represents a 59% premium to Lifeway’s average price in the last three months. Lifeway has been experiencing internal turmoil, with a family dispute between the CEO and her relatives. A large shareholder has urged Lifeway to sell itself due to alleged mismanagement.
Danone, a long-time shareholder in Lifeway, has witnessed the company’s success in the gut health market. Lifeway reported record sales in 2023 and has shown consistent growth over the years. Consumers have turned to kefir for its health benefits, including digestive regulation and heart health.
If the acquisition goes through, Danone could leverage its global scale to further grow Lifeway’s products and provide support in innovation, distribution, and marketing. Lifeway has acknowledged the offer and will carefully evaluate it. Critics have been calling for Lifeway to sell itself, citing undervaluation and poor financial results. The company has been embroiled in a family feud, with calls for the CEO’s ouster and exploration of strategic alternatives.
Overall, Danone’s potential acquisition of Lifeway could bring significant opportunities and value to both companies.
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Lara Heller graduated from the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands with a degree in New Media and Communication. During her studies, she specialized in digital media, social media strategies, and content creation. She participated in various digital media projects during her university years, focusing particularly on online journalism and media ethics. After graduation, Lara started working as a content strategist at one of Europe’s leading digital media agencies, where she developed campaigns that strengthened the digital presence of numerous international brands.
