Lactalis takes McLelland

UK – France-based Lactalis has bought the UK’s third largest cheese producer, the family-owned and run A McLelland & Son.

McLelland is best known for its rapidly expanding Seriously Strong Cheddar brand, and also makes Galloway, Mull of Kintyre, Orkney Island, and Isle of Bute Cheddars.

The deal will open up export opportunities for McLelland products, but none of the Irvine family will be there to see it succeeds – brothers and joint managing directors Alistair and Douglas and chairman Hugh will leave the company.

Lactalis UK managing director Andy Smith will take on the role of managing director of McLelland. He said: “Lactalis UK has built a strong reputation for professionalism in the marketing of great cheese brands.”