Lactalis South Africa has received approval from the Competition Commission to acquire Nestlé’s Cremora business, marking a significant shift for the iconic South African creamer brand. The announcement, made on 2 April 2025, includes the transfer of Cremora’s employees and production facilities in Babelegi, Gauteng, and Potchefstroom, North West, to Lactalis, a local arm of the French multinational dairy corporation.
Cremora, a household staple for 77 years, has been integral to South Africa’s coffee culture since 1961, famously known for its slogan, “It’s not inside, it’s on top.” Nestlé took over the brand in 1993 from Borden Foods Corporation and established the Babelegi factory in 1998, which now produces 130 tons of Cremora daily alongside cereal and noodles. One in five South African coffee drinkers uses Cremora, reflecting its deep market penetration, according to Nestlé’s claims.
Lactalis South Africa, known for brands like Parmalat, President, Melrose, and Steri Stumpie, sees the acquisition as a strategic move to expand its product range. The company, part of the Lactalis Group founded in 1933 by André Besnier in France, has a history of growth in South Africa, acquiring brands like Simonsberg and Cape Dairies through Parmalat between 1998 and 2003. Lactalis Group took a majority share in Parmalat in 2011, rebranding to Lactalis South Africa in 2020.
General Manager Herman Janse van Rensburg emphasized that the acquisition aligns with Lactalis’ goal to cater to local consumer preferences. “We are excited to welcome our new colleagues and will build on Cremora’s rich heritage, ensuring seamless continuity for employees, suppliers, and consumers,” he said. The move is expected to strengthen Cremora’s market position while maintaining its legacy under Lactalis’ stewardship.