Woodlands Dairy Group (Pty) Limited has announced the acquisition of 100% of Ladismith Cheese Company (Pty) Limited and its subsidiaries—Ladismith Powder Company (Pty) Limited and Mooivallei Suiwel (Pty) Limited—from Sea Harvest Group Limited. The transaction marks a major milestone in Woodlands Dairy Group’s expansion strategy, strengthening its position within the South African dairy industry.
Strengthening Market Position
Woodlands Dairy Group, which includes Woodlands Dairy and Fairfield Dairy (Pty) Limited, specialises in a wide range of dairy products such as UHT milk, custard, cheese, yoghurt, and flavoured milk. The acquisition will broaden the Group’s product offering, enhance supply chain efficiencies, and deepen its commitment to local dairy production.
CEO Helen McDougall states that the transaction aligns with the company’s vision to provide high-quality, sustainable dairy products to a growing customer base. By combining Woodlands’ national network with Ladismith’s strong regional expertise, the Group aims to deliver a more specialised and diverse portfolio of dairy products.
Expanding National Footprint
Chairman Lex Gutsche highlights that the acquisition significantly expands Woodlands Dairy Group’s geographical presence, giving the company production facilities across South Africa. This increased footprint will bring the Group closer to farmers and customers nationwide.
Gutsche also notes that the transaction positions Woodlands as the largest wholly South African-owned dairy business with 25% Black empowerment—an achievement that reflects its commitment to South Africa’s economic growth and transformation.
About Ladismith Cheese Company
Founded in 1999, Ladismith Cheese Company is recognised for its high-quality cheese, butter, and milk powder products. Its integration into Woodlands Dairy Group will enable the combined entity to extend its product range, grow its customer base, and realise operational synergies that support long-term efficiency and profitability.
Pending regulatory approvals, Ladismith Cheese Company will continue operating under its existing brand while benefiting from the leadership and support of Woodlands Dairy Group.
Sea Harvest’s Strategic Realignment
Sea Harvest Group CEO Felix Ratheb confirms that the sale aligns with the company’s 2025 strategic plan to reduce debt and refocus on its core seafood businesses. Proceeds from the disposal will be used to repay a portion of long-term debt within its South African operations.
About Woodlands Dairy Group
Woodlands Dairy Group has grown over 30 years into one of South Africa’s leading UHT milk manufacturers, best known for its First Choice brand. The Group produces, processes, and packages premium dairy products for both its own brand and private-label products supplied to major retailers.
Shareholding includes Gutsche Family Investments (Pty) Ltd and a 25% equity stake held through Dream World Investments 481 (RF) (Pty) Ltd. Headquartered in Humansdorp along the Garden Route, the company benefits from its location at the heart of the Eastern Cape dairy region. The Group further expanded in 2022 through the acquisition of Fairfield Dairy in KwaZulu-Natal.
Commitment to Sustainability and Growth
Woodlands Dairy Group prioritises sustainability through responsible sourcing, efficient production processes, and recyclable packaging. Its focus on innovation, quality, and customer needs continues to drive growth and set industry standards within the South African dairy sector.