Arla Foods achieves strong financial performance in 2024

In 2024, Arla Foods experienced a strong year, with revenue increasing to EUR 13.8 billion and strong profit levels enabling the highest dividend payout to farmer-owners in the company's history.

In 2024, Arla Group's total revenue reached EUR 13.8 billion and the company achieved a net profit of EUR 401 million. The performance price increased to 50.9 EUR-cent/kg, marking the second-highest level in Arla’s history and reflecting strong market demand and effective cost management. As a consequence, Arla proposes a supplementary payment of 2.2 EUR-cent/kg milk delivered, marking the highest dividends paid to the farmer owners in the company’s history.

”Arla's strong results in 2024 are a testament to the dedication and skill of our farmer owners and employees. Our competitive milk price and financial performance reflect our ability to navigate a complex market landscape effectively and deliver value to our stakeholders.” says Jan Toft Nørgaard, Chair of Arla Foods.

In 2024, consumers across Europe saw a resurgence in purchasing power and Arla Foods saw a return to branded volume growth, as Arla’s strategic brands Arla®, Lurpak®, Puck®, Starbucks™ and Castello® achieved a volume-driven revenue growth of 3.7%, compared to a decrease of -0.7% in 2023. This rise in brand growth significantly contributed to Arla's high revenue level.

Arla’s Fund our Future transformation and efficiency programme exceeded expectations and achieved a net saving of EUR 131 million.

The strong financial performance enabled the Arla Board of Directors to propose the company’s highest-ever supplementary payment of 2.2 EUR-cent/kg of milk delivered, totaling EUR 292 million. This payment underscores Arla's commitment to delivering value to its farmer owners and exceeds the level set in Arla's Retainment Policy.

"I am delighted that Arla Foods is performing well, and we see a high demand for dairy and our products in particular across the globe. The highest ever supplementary payment, along with a competitive milk price, reflects Arla’s financial strength”, says Peder Tuborgh, CEO of Arla Foods.

In 2024 Arla continued to invest in significant projects to support future operations. Investments reached a record high of more than EUR 1 billion.

On track towards 2030 target with climate initiatives

This year, Arla consolidated its sustainability efforts under the FarmAhead™ brand, underscoring a dedicated push towards science-based farming. FarmAhead™ Technology provides Arla’s farmer-owners with essential tools to measure and advance their sustainability transitions. Key components include a climate check with more than 200 data points for every Arla farm, and Arla’s incentive model, where farmers are compensated directly in the milk price based on the number of climate actions they implement.

The FarmAhead™ Incentive points collected by farmers have consistently increased, rising from an average of 50 points in 2023 to 53 points in 2024.The “FarmAhead™ Customer Partnership” further strengthens these efforts by enabling customers to engage in climate reduction projects on farms, providing valuable data for ESG reporting and scope 3 climate targets. This programme has already secured agreements encompassing over 4 billion kilos of milk.

In 2024, Arla made significant strides in reducing emissions, cutting Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 4 percentage points to achieve a 37% reduction from 2015 levels. This progress was mainly driven by energy optimizations, district heating, heat pump investments, and contributions from power purchase agreements.

With the support of FarmAhead™ Technology, Arla's farmer owners continued to reduce carbon emissions in 2024 despite challenges from weather and uncertainties around future legislation. This led to an additional 1 percentage point decrease in scope 3 emissions per kg of milk and whey contributing to an overall reduction of 13% since 2015.

In 2024, Arla’s absolute emissions related to milk was reduced by 3 % compared to 2023, corresponding to 415 thousand tonnes of CO2e. While reductions were evidently achieved by Arla farmers, a substantial increase in the purchase of external whey for Arla’s growing ingredients business led to only a modest decrease in total scope 3-emissions compared to 2023.

"We remain steadfast in our sustainability journey, and we are on track to meet our ambitious goals. In 2024 we took the lead in sustainability for the dairy industry with our innovative FarmAhead™ initiatives. Our integrated approach not only reduces emissions but also adds value to our customers and farmer-owners, demonstrating our commitment to shaping a sustainable future”, says Peder Tuborgh.

Food security in an unpredictable world

The high levels of geopolitical turbulence from previous years persisted in 2024, with conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East. These crises, in addition to their dire humanitarian impacts, fueled market volatility and uncertainty, disrupted global logistics, and highlighted the vulnerabilities in international supply chains.

“In an unpredictable world, maintaining food production is paramount, Governments that have not yet prioritized a comprehensive strategy for food security must ensure that it’s in place going forward. Ensuring robust local food systems is not just a matter of economic stability, but a fundamental responsibility to safeguard our communities in times of uncertainty”, says Peder Tuborgh.

Arla is actively contributing to food security and stability within its home markets. In Sweden, Arla is engaged with the food authority consultation group and contribute actively to the ongoing work to strengthen the civil defense. In Finland, where there is a long history of preparing for exceptional circumstances, the dairy industry is a key component of food security. The authorities at the National Emergency Supply Agency coordinate and promote preparedness measures, and Arla, along with other food companies critical to security of supply, participate in activities through the food pool.

Across home markets, Arla upholds a significant supply chain responsibility by efficiently processing and utilizing milk from local dairy farmers. This approach secures local employment and ensures the continuous provision of nutritious, high-quality products to consumers. Arla's strategic investments in logistics, infrastructure, and collaboration with farmers and stakeholders are designed to maintain a stable food production and supply chain, even amidst challenges.

"Our cooperative model not only ensures resilience and stability in food supply but also strengthens our capacity to support and feed communities during times of crisis. The fact that we are farmer owned allows for rapid adaptation and innovation during these challenging times, as decision-making is closely linked to those closest to production, says Peder Tuborgh.

Also essential is Arla Foods Ingredients, where Arla discovers and delivers ingredients and products that can advance lifelong nutrition for the benefit of consumers around the world. With a specialty in early life nutrition, medical nutrition and health foods, the business is in the midst of a growth journey. This was marked by several strategic changes in 2024, including the acquisition of Volac’s Whey Nutrition Business, the largest acquisition in AFI history.

Outlook

Looking ahead to 2025, the geopolitical turbulence is expected to persist, and will require careful navigation, leveraging Arla's cooperative strength and local food production capabilities.

Despite these challenges, consumer purchasing power is anticipated to remain stable in 2025, following improvements in 2024 due to lower inflation and higher wages. However, dairy demand is expected to be influenced by consumer reactions to elevated dairy prices and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

The global dairy supply, which lagged behind demand in 2024, is anticipated to adjust to the higher price levels, potentially increasing supply in 2025. Nonetheless, political uncertainties, particularly those related to sustainability in core markets, may continue to pose challenges.

Arla projects its 2025 revenue to range between EUR 14.5-15.3 billion, driven by the high dairy price level, with profit share within the target of 2.8% to 3.2%. However, the high price levels, combined with consumer uncertainty, are expected to pressure branded volume-driven revenue growth, projected at -2.0% to -1.0%. This range is subject to the balance of supply and demand dynamics throughout the year. Arla projects efficiencies for 2025 in the range of EUR 90-110 million.

"Our commitment to resilience and adaptability remains unwavering. By harnessing the strength of our cooperative model and focusing on sustainable practices, we are well-positioned to navigate the uncertainties ahead and continue delivering value to our farmer owners and customers, says Peder Tuborgh.

Additional information

Annual Results 2024 key figures:

• Group revenue: EUR 13.8 billion (2023: 13.7)

• Performance price: 50.9 eurocent/kg (2023: 47.0)

• Milk volume: 13.7 billion kg (2023: 13.9)

• Net profit share of revenue: 2.9% (2023: 2.8%)

• Proposed supplementary payment: 2.2 EUR-cent/kg of milk delivered (2023: 2.1 EUR-cent/kg of milk delivered)

• Net efficiencies: EUR 131 million (2023: 114)

• Leverage: 3.2 (2023: 2.6)

• Overall strategic branded volume driven revenue growth: 3.7% - Includes Lurpak® Arla ® Puck® Castello® Starbucks ™ (2023: -0.7%)

Sustainability

• Scope 1+2 emissions reduction: 4%P

• Scope 3 emissions reduction: 1%P

• Absolute emissions related to milk reduction: 3%

• Arla consolidated its sustainability efforts under the FarmAhead™ brand, underscoring a dedicated push towards science-based farming.

Commercial segments

Arla divides its business into 4 commercial segments.

Europe:

In 2024, Arla's European segment saw a revenue increase of 1.0% to EUR 8,066 million, driven by a 4.1% branded volume growth. This growth was fueled by robust branded positions, strategic growth efforts, and increased consumer purchasing power due to easing inflation and rising wages. Notably, branded volume growth was strong in the Netherlands/Belgium and France cluster (7.4%) and the UK (7.6%).

Key performers included Arla® Protein, Arla® Pro, and Lurpak®, with respective growth rates of 32.3%, 8.7%, and 6.7%. The successful launch of Arla® Protein in Sweden and Milka® chocolate milk in Germany further boosted growth. The UK business saw a slight decrease by 0.2% to EUR 3,055 million, Arla Sweden increased revenue by 3.6% to EUR 1,592 million, while Denmark saw a revenue decrease of -1.3 % to EUR 1,241 million despite stable branded volumes. Germany experienced a 1.5% revenue increase, supported by strong growth in Arla® Skyr and BUKO®. The Netherlands, Belgium, and France achieved a 4.1% revenue rise, with standout growth from Melkunie Breaker® and Arla® Lactofree. Finland recorded a 2.4% revenue increase, driven by Arla® Protein and successful foodservice initiatives.

International:

In 2024, Arla's International segment faced a revenue decrease of 1.5% to EUR 2,435 million, primarily due to unfavorable currency developments in Nigeria and Bangladesh. Despite these challenges, the underlying revenue development was positive, and the segment achieved a branded volume growth of 2.9%.

In the Middle East and North Africa, revenues decreased by -2.4% to EUR 970 million, though branded volume growth continued at 2.7%, driven by Puck® and Foodservice growth. The Rest of the World cluster saw a revenue increase of 8.0% to EUR 649 million, with Arla Protein® leading a 6.4% branded volume growth. North America maintained stable revenue at EUR 339 million, with a 2.2% increase in branded volumes.

South East Asia's revenue declined by 1.7% to EUR 261 million, but branded volumes grew by 1.7% thanks to strong performance in the Philippines and Indonesia. In China, revenue fell by 20.1% to EUR 121 million due to lower private label volumes, but branded growth was strong at 9.9%, led by Baby&Me. West Africa experienced a substantial revenue decline of 21.5% to EUR 100 million, impacted by currency devaluation in Nigeria and a 19.1% decrease in branded volumes.

AFI:

In 2024, Arla Foods Ingredients (AFI) continued to lead in whey-based ingredients, achieving a revenue increase of 5.4% to EUR 1,015 million. This growth was driven by strong demand for specialized proteins and a notable 2.5% growth in the value-add segment. Despite market price volatility, AFI maintained robust momentum through continuous innovation and concept development.

A significant milestone in 2024 was AFI's acquisition of full ownership of Volac Whey Nutrition Ltd., enhancing its position in the health and performance nutrition sector. Additionally, the Future 26 strategy saw substantial progress with the completion of new capacities for specialized proteins at Danmark Protein and the commencement of a new permeate dryer in Argentina.

The Advanced Nutrition business faced challenges, particularly in China, leading to a strategic shift to focus on ingredients production at the Arinco site, aligning with AFI's core business growth plans.

Global industry sales:

In 2024, Global Industry Sales experienced a revenue decline of 0.1%, driven by higher commodity prices amidst strong demand and constrained dairy supply. European and global dairy markets saw significant price increases, particularly in fat-heavy products like butter and yellow cheese, the former rising by 40% during the year.

Despite a reduction in trading volumes due to lower milk intake from farmer owners and increased retail volumes in Europe and International zones, Global Industry Sales only saw a small decline in revenue. The share of milk solids sold through this segment decreased to 24.8%, reflecting the strategic balance between retail and industry demands.

Global brands:

In 2024, Arla experienced a return to branded growth with a volume-driven revenue of 3.7% (-0.7% in 2023) and a branded revenue increase of 3.1% to EUR 6,589 million (2023: EUR 6,375 million), which exceeded expectations at the start of the year. This growth was driven by increased consumer purchasing power, strong sales execution and the strength of Arla’s brands, resulting in a rise in the branded volume market share

Arla® brand

Our Arla® brand with its various successful sub-brands covering multiple categories such as milk, yogurt, cream, powder and cheese, achieved a branded volume driven increase of 3.9% in 2024 (2023: -2.8%). The volume increase was partly offset by a slightly lower price level which resulted in a 3.1% revenue increase to EUR 3,737 million in 2024 (2023: EUR 3,618 million). Some of our sub-brands experienced exceptional volume growth. Arla® Protein grew volumes by 36.0%, and our foodservice brand Arla® Pro experienced a growth of 13.7% during the year. From a market perspective, branded volume growth was especially prominent in the Netherlands/Belgium/France cluster and in the UK with a branded growth of 10.7% and 10.6% respectively in 2024.

Lurpak®

Our Lurpak® brand achieved a revenue growth of 8.4% to EUR 837 million (2023: EUR 772 million) with volumes increasing by 5.6% compared to 2023 (2023: 0.8%). The strong growth was a result of Lurpak® successfully capitalizing on its brand strength. The European markets led this growth with a volume increase of 6.7%, mainly driven by the UK and Denmark. Our international markets maintained a steady volume growth of 3.7%, mainly driven by West Africa and the Rest of the world cluster.

Castello®

Our speciality cheese brand, Castello®, experienced a volume decrease of –1.1% compared to 2023. This was offset due to higher prices leading to a minor revenue decrease of –0.2% to EUR 245 million (2023: EUR 246 million). Our European markets saw a volume decrease of –3.1% which, although a decline, is an improvement versus last year (2023: -4.6%). In our international markets, volumes increased by 0.4%, led by growth in Southeast Asia and Rest of the world. From a category lens the volume growth in 2024 was mainly driven by the cream and processed cheese category, but constrained by decreases in the mould and yellow cheese categories,

Puck®

Puck®, our leading brand in MENA, overall grew volumes by 3.4%, with revenue decreasing by -2.7% to EUR 514 million (2023: EUR 526 million). The revenue decrease was mainly driven by the processed cheese category which faced a headwind from pricing competition in key markets. Meanwhile, the cooking portfolio saw a strong growth in both volume and revenue, led by cooking creams and cooking cheese portfolio.

Starbucks™

Our Starbucks™ ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee assortment, available in more than 50 countries in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, delivered 0.8% volume growth in 2024. The growth was mainly driven by our European business, which grew volumes by 2.8% due to enhancements in distribution and channel strategies, along with the successful introduction of Ready-To-Drink Protein Coffee in the UK. Our international markets experienced a volume decrease of -3.5% driven by negative impact from the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, however partly offset by strong growth in Rest of the world.