Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co. Ltd. expects a decision from the Australian Competition Tribunal on its bid for Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory Holdings Co. by the end of February. Murray Goulburn raised its offer to A$530 million as it faces strong competition with Canada's Saputo Inc.
Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co Ltd
Bega Cheese Ltd., the largest shareholder in Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Co. Holdings, is reportedly negotiating with other firms including non-Australian investors on a possible sale of its 18.7% stake in Australia's oldest dairy firm.
Saputo Inc., Canada's biggest dairy company, has extended its bid for Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory Co. by a week to next Friday. Saputo is up against Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co. Ltd. and Bega Cheese Ltd. for the Australian dairy firm, according to a Reuters report.
Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co Ltd, the second-biggest shareholder in Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory Co Holdings Ltd, raised its takeover offer for the Australian dairy company to A$505 million ($470 million), trumping Canada's Saputo Inc's bid.
Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory Company Holdings Ltd received its third and bigger acquisition offer from Murray Goulburn Co-operative Co Ltd.