WA-based Brownes Dairy is back on the market

On 24 August 2026, McGrathNicol launched the formal sale process for Western Australia’s Brownes Dairy.

The transaction has been initiated by China Mengniu Dairy Company, which has consolidated its holding position so the entire enterprise can now be sold.

Established in 1886, Brownes Dairy currently operates out of its main site in Balcatta with a second site in Brunswick, collecting about 150 million litres of milk each year from more than 50 dairy farms located in WA’s South West. Its portfolio of dairy includes milk, cream, yoghurt, flavoured milk, juice and desserts. The business now enters the market backed by strong financial momentum, forecasting calendar year revenue of $288 million — up from $270 million in the previous 12 months.

McGrathNicol Partner Rob Kirman said the sale process came amid strong sector tailwinds, drawing parallels to recent high-profile transactions — Lactalis’ acquisition of Fonterra’s Mainland Group and Danone’s proposed acquisition of the Made Group.

Brownes Dairy CEO and Managing Director Natalie Sarich-Dayton said the brand’s robust commercial position made the sale process an optimal juncture for a transition in ownership.

“Brownes is a growing and resilient business with an exceptional team, loyal farming partners, and a 140-year legacy in Western Australia,” Sarich-Dayton said. “This process is a natural and positive step toward securing a long-term custodian capable of supporting our next phase of commercial and geographic expansion.”

As restructuring activities are contained at the parent-shareholder level, Brownes Dairy’s operations is claimed to remain insulated and unaffected, and will continue uninterrupted under its independent Board and management team while delivering strong revenue growth.

“It is a testament to the strength of our management team and our people that operations have continued uninterrupted and the business has maintained positive momentum,” Sarich-Dayton said. “With a path for our corporate ownership structure set to be resolved, we look forward to working with McGrathNicol to find a long-term partner to support our continued momentum.”

Interested parties have been asked to contact Daniel Comande of McGrathNicol at dcomande@mcgrathnicol.com.

Image caption: Brownes Dairy white milk range rebranded in August.