Food packaging and processing company Tetra Pak has acquired the Dutch cheese moulds manufacturer Laude for undisclosed amount.
Established in 1962, Laude is engaged in designing, development, and manufacturing of plastic moulds used in hard and semi-hard cheese production.
Tetra Pak processing systems vice-president Tim High said: "Laude has established a reputation for providing very high quality moulds and service to the cheese industry.
"We are delighted to add Laude products to our already comprehensive portfolio, and offer even more competitive cheese lines with guaranteed performance."
Tetra Pak expects the acquisition of Laude to boost its position as the leading provider of complete solutions for cheese manufacturing while extending the availability of Laude products in the global market.
The acquisition will complement Tetra Pak's portfolio of cheese production equipment and solutions, Laude said.
Laude managing director Auke Rienks said: "We see an exciting opportunity for international growth through Tetra Pak channels, particularly outside of Europe, where our focus has been in the past."
Laude said that the sale would allow it to extend its global reach and provide its services through Tetra Pak's sales channels in more than 170 countries.
Laude, which will form part of Tetra Pak Cheese and Powder Systems, will remain in its current location.
Earlier this year, Tetra Pak produced a regional version of Tetra Rex Bio-based package made entirely from plant based materials for the US market.
The package, known as the Gable Top Bio-based, has been designed for use on existing gable top filling machines while eliminating the need for modification or additional investment.
Image: Cheese moulding line. Photo: courtesy of Tetra Pak International S.A.