Chobani ventures into coffee market with US$900M Acquisition of La Colombe 

US – Chobani, renowned for its Greek-style yogurt, has acquired La Colombe, a prominent coffee business, for a staggering US$900 million in a significant move to expand its portfolio.  

The deal, announced on December 15, brings together two assets controlled by Hamdi Ulukaya, marking a strategic expansion for both companies. 

La Colombe, with a presence across retail, cafes, foodservice, and direct-to-consumer channels, was acquired by Chobani through a US$550 million term loan and the exchange of Keurig Dr Pepper’s (KDP) minority equity stake in La Colombe for Chobani equity.  

KDP had previously invested US$300 million for a 33% stake in La Colombe earlier this year, becoming its second-largest investor. 

Chobani has been diversifying its portfolio over the past four years, extending its reach beyond yogurt into categories such as oat milk, cold-brew coffee, probiotic beverages, and coffee creamers. 

While maintaining this strategy, the acquisition of La Colombe provides Chobani with an opportunity to integrate another well-known brand into its collection, acting as a platform for further growth. 

Under Chobani’s ownership, La Colombe aims to leverage the company’s retail execution, marketing, and cold chain capabilities to expand its multi-serve offerings.  

With a recent sales and distribution agreement with KDP, La Colombe plans to significantly increase the reach of its single-serve product line and explore underdeveloped channels. 

Hamdi Ulukaya, Chobani’s founder and CEO, expressed excitement stating, “We’ve already made an investment in the coffee category with our creamers and are excited about bringing La Colombe into the Chobani family, and offering the delicious, high-quality cold brew and ready-to-drink craftmanship of La Colombe to a next generation of consumers.” 

Bob Gamgort, chairman and CEO of KDP said, “La Colombe is a unique brand and well positioned to continue its strong growth trajectory, including upside as its ready-to-drink line expands availability through our company-owned DSD [direct-store distribution] network and with premium K-Cup pods now in the market,” 

In the context of the global ready-to-drink coffee market, valued at US$33.4 billion in 2023 with a projected compound annual growth rate of 5.79% through 2027, this acquisition positions Chobani strategically.  

The ready-to-drink coffee category is a lucrative space, and La Colombe’s established presence is expected to complement Chobani’s existing offerings. 

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