Top 7 Companies in the Global Cheese Market | 2026

The global cheese market was valued at USD 110.05 Billion in 2025 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.80%, reaching USD 233.23 Billion by 2035. As per the analysis by Expert Market Research, the market is expected to be driven by the growing adoption of Italian and American cuisines.

Cheese is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin B12, appealing to consumers of all ages. The global cheese market is experiencing growth, fueled by surging demand in fast-food preparations. Rapidly expanding multinational fast-food chains play a pivotal role in accelerating the cheese demand globally. Moreover, shifting lifestyles, urbanization, and rising incomes in emerging economies contribute to its expansion.

As the world becomes more connected and globalized, the demand for cuisine from across cultures is rising. The rise in demand for Italian and American dishes is supporting the increasing consumption of cheese. In addition, the market experienced a surge in production driven by a diverse launch of cheese products suitable for various culinary applications as well as snacking. Leading manufacturers are focused on innovating with flavoured, artisanal, and plant-based alternatives.

In April 2024, Velveeta expanded its product line with the introduction of three ready-to-eat queso flavors and two new options for its Shells & Cheese range. The move aims to cater to a younger audience and simplify the enjoyment of their favourite cheese-based dishes. Alongside traditional offerings like Queso Con Salsa and Jalapeño, Velveeta is also launching unique flavors such as Pizza and Buffalo for its Shells & Cheese, along with its first-ever Gluten-Free option. These innovations reflect Velveeta's commitment to providing convenient and diverse choices for cheese lovers everywhere. Further, in April 2024, Kraft Natural Cheese launched Kraft Flavor Fusions, a new line of block cheeses featuring three enticing flavors: Garlic & Herb Cheddar, Buffalo Ranch Monterey Jack, and Tomato Basil Monterey Jack.

Latest Updates on Top Cheese Companies Worldwide 2026

In July 2026, Danone confirmed its full-year outlook after second-quarter sales accelerated to 4.4 percent growth, with margin improvement across its health-focused dairy portfolio.

In June 2026, the Arla Foods–DMK merger took effect, uniting around 11,200 farmer-owners across seven countries under the Arla name to form Europe's leading dairy cooperative.

In March 2026, regulators cleared Fonterra's roughly NZ$4.2 billion sale of its Mainland consumer business, including its cheese brands, to Lactalis, one of the year's biggest dairy deals.

In January 2026, the FrieslandCampina–Milcobel merger took effect, expanding the cooperative's milk pool and European reach.

Top 7 Cheese Companies in the World | Best Brands & Manufacturers

1. Nestle SA

The company is one of the leading players in the food and beverage industry. It offers products in various segments such as prepared dishes, nutrition and science, powdered and liquid beverages, milk products, and pet care. The company had a workforce of 270,000 employees as of 2023 and it sells its products in 188 countries. Nestle operates through more than 340 factories located in 77 countries. The company earned a revenue of CHF 92.998 billion in 2023  and is listed on SIX Swiss Exchange (SWX) under the symbol of NESN. In July 2026, Nestlé reported first-half 2026 sales of CHF 43.1 billion with 3.6 percent organic growth, as new CEO Philipp Navratil advanced its efficiency-led strategy.

2. Danone S.A.

Danone S.A. is a leading food and beverage conglomerate operating through four segments including Essential Dairy and Plant-Based Products, Water, Early Life and Medical Nutrition. It is represented in more than 120 markets worldwide and employs more than 10,000 people. The company is listed on Euronext Paris (EPA), also known as, the Paris Stock Exchange, under the symbol of BN.  The company offers products under three segments, namely, preserve and regenerate nature, progress, and lead health through food, and thriving people and communities. The company’s turnover reached EUR 27.6 billion in 2023. In July 2026, Danone reported second-quarter 2026 like-for-like sales growth of 4.2 percent and first-half sales of EUR 13.9 billion, led by its dairy, specialised nutrition, and water businesses.

3. Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. is a farmer-led cooperative that specialises in dairy food processing and manufacturing of dairy products and ingredients. The cooperative has a network of 6,000 family farms, 1,000 family farmers, and employs 19,000 people. Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. offers ingredient solutions and a range of dairy products including milk, buttermilk, cheese, butter, creams, and cheese curds under various brands. In April 2026, DFA launched its MULU cottage-cheese brand at Walmart and acquired W&W Dairy in Wisconsin, expanding into traditional Hispanic cheeses such as queso fresco and cotija.

4. Lactalis International

Lactalis International, also known as Lactalis Group, has a presence across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and French Overseas Territories. With headquarters in Choisy-le-Roi, France, and over 10 global locations, the company has a portfolio of over 2,000 dairy products, meeting diverse customer needs. Maintaining high-quality standards, the company exports over 17,000 containers annually to 100+ countries, reflecting its commitment to global excellence. In March 2026, Lactalis completed its acquisition of Fonterra's Mainland Group consumer business for around NZ$4.2 billion, adding cheese and dairy brands across Oceania, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

5. Fonterra Co-operative Group

Fonterra Cooperative Group, headquartered in New Zealand, holds the prestigious title of being the world's top dairy product exporter. The company is known for its pioneering work in dairy science and innovation and it boasts an extensive brand portfolio in the Asia Pacific region. With a global presence spanning over 40 countries, it serves as a valued partner to numerous prominent food industry giants. Fonterra's commitment to excellence and its strategic collaborations cement its position as a leading force in the global dairy market, consistently delivering quality products and fostering innovation. In March 2026, Fonterra completed the sale of its global consumer business, Mainland Group, to Lactalis, sharpening its focus on ingredients and foodservice.

6. Royal FrieslandCampina N.V.

Royal FrieslandCampina N.V., also known as FrieslandCampina, is a renowned dairy giant with over 150 years of cooperative history. The cooperative is owned by 14,634 dairy farmers across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The company produces a diverse range of dairy products and ingredients. It caters to various consumer groups and professional customers worldwide. With a workforce of 20,928 employees and operations in 29 countries, FrieslandCampina exports to over 100 nations. In January 2026, FrieslandCampina completed its merger with Belgian dairy cooperative Milcobel, strengthening its scale and European dairy footprint.

7. Arla Foods amba

Arla Foods Amba company known as Arla is a dairy cooperative owned by 8,492 farmers. It holds a conservative capital structure in line with that of a strong investment-grade company. As one of the largest dairy cooperatives globally, Arla serves millions of individuals with nutritious products while upholding a commitment to sustainable practices. In June 2026, Arla Foods completed its merger with DMK Group, creating Europe's largest dairy cooperative with combined revenue exceeding EUR 20 billion.