LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND – Swiss dairy manufacturer Emmi announced it is selling its 25% stake in Italian cheese specialist Ambrosi SpA.

The majority shareholders of Ambrosi and Emmi sold the stake to Lactalis Group for an undisclosed purchase price. The transaction will become complete once approved by responsible competition authorities.

Per Emmi, the company is transforming its strategic focus and divesting in the Italian cheese company was part of that plan. Emmi acquired the stake in 2007, as each company looked at the time to grow its international presence.

Ambrosi primarily makes Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano cheeses, as well as mozzarella and gorgonzola. Emmi Group chief executive officer Urs Riedener said Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano were ideal additions, but are no longer part of the company's core range.

“The sale also reflects our consistent strategic alignment to differentiated brand concepts and profitable focus platforms such as ready-to-drink coffee, specialty cheeses, desserts and plant-based milk alternatives,” Riedener said.

Emmi’s leadership stated that both Emmi and Ambrosi now have structures in place outside of their respective domestic markets that will allow them to keep growing.