Food and agriculture investment firm Arlon Group has purchased a minority stake in Brazil-based CBL Alimentos (Betania).
Betânia is the largest dairy company in the Northeast Region of Brazil, producing fluid milk, dairy drinks and yogurt, among other dairy products.
As part of the investment, Bruno Martins Silva has joined the Company's Board of Directors as Arlon's representative.
Bruno Girão, Betânia's CEO and majority shareholder, will continue to lead the business. Commenting on Arlon, he said, "Arlon sets itself apart from other private equity firms. I am grateful to have a trusted partnership with Bruno Silva and the Arlon team and truly feel like I have gained close advisors that share the same values and will greatly help Betânia in this new phase."
He further added, "I appreciate the breadth and depth of Arlon's excellent network in the food and agriculture industries in Brazil and globally. Their relationships and resources in retail, distribution and milk production will consolidate Betânia as the leading brand in the Northeast Region."
Speaking on behalf of Arlon, Bruno Silva said, "Betânia is well positioned in the growing milk industry as the leading regional dairy company. We are very excited to partner with Bruno Girão, who built and led the impressive growth and professionalization of the Company. Betânia has developed a value-added portfolio, good brand recognition and a strong supply chain. Bruno is a talented CEO who has significant experience in the industry, besides being a great partner. We are looking forward to supporting Bruno and the Company as it builds on its success."
"I am very pleased that Arlon is partnering with Bruno Girão and Betânia. Betânia, with its growth and success, promotes dairy farming in the Northeast Region, and it is key for both social and economic development in the region", said Roberto Rodrigues, a former Agriculture Minister of Brazil and a member of the Arlon Latin America Advisory Board.
