Sandinavian dairy giant Arla Foods has announced the opening of its new subsidiary in Spain. The new division assumed responsibility for direct contact with selected supermarket chains, the so-called key-accounts, from the current distributor in Spain in a move that reflects Arla Foods' strategy for growth.
"Due to the internationalisation of the large multiples, more direct contact with the Spanish chains is a natural development, especially in view of Arla Foods' policies in other parts of Europe," said regional director Martin Vilstrup.
As a result, the new subsidiary will be responsible for all sales procedures, from order processing through to delivery at the chains' central warehouses. The new office in Madrid employs a staff of four under commercial director Ingacio Cuadrado.
Over the past five years, Arla Foods' sales in the Spanish market, one of the Europe division's largest markets, have grown by 100 per cent to DKK 500 million.
Arla Foods' Spanish strategy is to build strong brands such as Dofino Havarti, Finello Pasta Filata, Apetina Feta and Arla Danish Blue under the new Arla mega brand. Sales from serviced cheese counters will also be strengthened.