Dutch dairy cooperative FrieslandCampina is exploring possibilities to close its mozzarella production facility in Bree, Belgium.

The company’s decision comes after the facility failed to meet profitability expectations, leading management to consider that it is not viable to continue its operations.

FrieslandCampina Dairy Essentials president Hans Meeuwis said: “We understand that this is hard for the employees and the management involved and we will offer them appropriate support.

“We have looked at solutions. Unfortunately, they did not lead to a positive outcome. based on this, we decided to investigate the closure of the production site.

“An important part of our strategy is adding more value to basic dairy (cheese, milk powder and butter). That is why mozzarella, for FrieslandCampina, remains an important addition to the existing cheese assortment.”

The latest move is expected to affect 28 employees working at this location.

With this announcement, FrieslandCampina has initiated the formal information and consultation process.

In August, Royal FrieslandCampina acquired Parrano and Tjiezi brands from Best Cheese Holland in order to expand its cheese activities and meet the growing consumer demand for dairy snacks in Europe, Asia, and North America.

FrieslandCampina is engaged in the production and distribution of consumer products such as infant nutrition, cheese, desserts and dairy-based beverages in many European countries, Asia and Africa.