Woodlands Dairy Group (Pty) Ltd is pleased to announce that the South African Competition Tribunal has approved its acquisition of 100% of Ladismith Cheese Company (Pty) Ltd, together with its subsidiaries, Ladismith Powder Company (Pty) Ltd and Mooivallei Suiwel (Pty) Ltd, from Sea Harvest Group Limited.
The Tribunal’s approval, following a positive recommendation from the South African Competition Commission, marks the conclusion of the regulatory approval process in South Africa.
Sea Harvest Group previously issued a voluntary announcement regarding the successful disposal of Ladismith Cheese Company and its subsidiaries (collectively “Ladismith”) to Woodlands Dairy Group. The transaction closed on 30 April 2026, with effect from 1 May 2026, when Ladismith officially became part of the Woodlands Dairy Group.
“This is an important milestone for our business and supports our long-term growth strategy,” says Woodlands Dairy Group CEO, Helen McDougall. “Ladismith brings strong regional expertise and a complementary product offering, positioning us to expand our capabilities while continuing to deliver quality, value, and innovation to our customers. We look forward to a successful integration.”
Ladismith Cheese Company will continue to operate under its existing brand, supported by the leadership and expertise of Woodlands Dairy Group. The business specialises in cheese, butter and milk powder, and these complementary product lines will further strengthen the Group’s overall offering. The transaction positions Ladismith for continued growth as part of a larger dairy group, while maintaining its positive impact in the communities it serves.
“I am very pleased and proud that Woodlands Dairy Group is now the largest wholly South African-owned, 25% Black-empowered dairy in the country – a clear testament to our belief in South Africa and its people” says Woodlands Dairy Group Chairman, Lex Gutsche.
Woodlands Dairy Group, a leading player in the dairy sector, comprises Woodlands Dairy and its wholly owned subsidiary, Fairfield Dairy (Pty) Ltd. The Group produces a wide range of products, including fresh and UHT milk, yoghurt, cheese, custard, and flavoured milk.
This acquisition represents a significant step in its growth strategy, reinforcing its commitment to the South African dairy industry while enhancing supply chain efficiencies and broadening its consumer offering.
McDougall concludes: “Being part of a larger dairy group presents new opportunities for scale, expansion, and reach. I’d like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all management, employees, milk producers, and suppliers for their ongoing commitment and contribution to our success.”