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Amul Set for European Market Debut  

The company plans to launch its products in Spain first, with further expansion across Europe to follow…reports Asian Lite News 

Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) Managing Director Jayen S. Mehta said on Monday that the dairy co-operative was poised to debut in the European market with its popular Amul products by the end of this month.  

“The company will launch the products in Spain first and then look at expanding to other countries in Europe,” Mehta said at the 57th Convocation of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) here. 

Amul launched its fresh milk in the US in May 2024. The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) partnered with the Michigan Milk Producers Association (MMPA) to launch the milk. The milk is available in one-gallon and half-gallon packs in cities like Chicago, Dallas, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. 

The four variants of milk are Amul Taaza, Amul Gold, Amul Shakti, and Amul Slim n Trim. 

Amul products are also available in Canada, including cheese, frozen snacks, beverages, and ice cream. 

In 2022-23, Amul’s export revenue touched Rs 72,000 crores (USD 9 billion). 

As the Chief Guest at the IIFT function, the GCMMF Managing Director urged the graduating students to explore rewarding careers in international business and trade. He highlighted the remarkable achievements of Indian companies in reaching new global markets and underscored how international business expertise could position students to be at the forefront of India’s expanding global footprint. He shared insights into how Amul and other leading Indian brands are strengthening India’s presence on the world stage, creating opportunities for talented professionals in trade and commerce. 

Dr Mehta’s address also underscored the significance of cooperatives in strengthening India’s rural economy and ultimately empowering farmers, highlighting the pivotal role cooperatives play in fostering economic resilience at the grassroots level. He also urged the graduates to prioritise human values and uphold strong ethical principles in their professional lives. 

Additionally, he reminded them to pay attention to their personal health and well-being, recognising that a balanced and healthy lifestyle is essential for long-term success and fulfilment. 

Meanwhile, Amul, has been recognized as the strongest food and dairy brand globally, according to the Brand Finance Food & Drink 2024 report. 

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Amul posted, “We are pleased to inform you that Amul is ranked as the strongest food brand and strongest dairy brand in the world as per Food & Drink 2024, the annual report on the most valuable and strongest food, dairy & non-alcoholic drinks brands by @BrandFinance , world’s leading brand consultancy” 

The annual report by Brand Finance, a global brand valuation consultancy, highlights the growing influence of Amul in the international market. 

The company’s brand strength was evaluated with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 91.0 out of 100, earning it the prestigious AAA+ rating. Amul’s performance in familiarity, consideration, and recommendation metrics solidified its position as a global leader in the food and dairy sectors. 

While Amul shines in brand strength, the report identifies Nestle and Lay’s as leaders in brand value. Nestle retained its title as the world’s most valuable food brand, despite a 7 per cent decline in brand value to USD 20.8 billion. 

The company’s ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences and maintain a diverse product portfolio has been key to its enduring success. 

Lay’s, on the other hand, saw a 9 per cent increase in brand value, rising to USD 12 billion and securing the second spot globally. Lay’s innovative product offerings, including its Flavour Swap and MAX lineups, have driven its brand value growth. 

The Brand Finance report also notes a 4 per cent decline in the overall brand value of the food and beverage sector, now totalling around USD 268 billion. 

This decline is attributed to consumers increasingly favoring smaller, private-label brands offering unique, personalized products over traditional big names. Convenience foods, however, are bucking the trend, with rising brand value due to growing demand from busy consumers. 

Brands like Healthy Choice and DiGiorno have seen a 17 per cent increase in brand value, driven by innovative product releases and strategic marketing. 

Amul’s ascension as the world’s strongest food and dairy brand is a testament to its consistent innovation, effective marketing strategies, and strong consumer trust. 

The cooperative’s commitment to quality and its extensive product range has made it a household name not just in India but across the globe. With an 85 per cent share in the Indian butter market and a 66 per cent market share in cheese, Amul’s brand equity continues to grow stronger each year. 

The dairy industry, however, faces its own set of challenges. The report notes a 6 per cent dip in the total brand value of the top 10 dairy brands, now at USD 43.8 billion. 

Despite this, Amul has retained its title as the strongest dairy brand for the fourth consecutive year, thanks to its unique cooperative structure and impactful branding efforts. 

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