Market instability at home continues to push Granarolo to set their sights abroad to protect the future of the Bologna-based group’s upstream supply chain. In 2014 they plan to open a distribution centre in China, “from which to distribute our Uht milk, baby foods, ice creams and Yomo brand cheeses across Eastern markets,” as stated in the company’s 2013 accounts breakdown. The Chinese centre follows the one opened in the UK in 2013, and the acquisition of Cipf Codipal in France last year. Meanwhile, “The Us, Canada, South America and Middle East are all markets at the advanced valuation stage.” Granarolo’s own performance has meant the group closed the year with a positive turnover and a growth-rate of 7.6% at 992.9 million Euros, of which 14% came from exports (sales in the Eu were up by 187%). While milk sales are down, milk-based products are on the increase, and this is where the company’s focus lies for the future.
