What Would Synlait Be Worth to Fonterra or a2 Milk?
Speculation of a possible joint move by Fonterra and a2 Milk to buy Synlait raises a much bigger strategic question, says agribusiness expert Dr Nic Lees.
This trading halt comes as Fonterra awaits a decision by the arbitration tribunal considering a $980 million damages claim made against the cooperative by Danone. The Danone claim followed Fonterra’s 2013 whey protein concentrate precautionary recall.
Fonterra says it was advised it will receive the arbitration tribunal’s decision today. It says neither party has been given advance notice of the tribunal’s findings and that it will not be in a position to immediately assess any financial implications and advise the market.
Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings said the co-operative expected to make a market announcement in relation to the Danone arbitration decision as soon as possible after the decision is received.
“Fonterra remains in a strong financial position and any damages award will not affect our ability to operate. We will share further details with the market, our farmers and staff as soon as practical,” he said.
