Lifeway to shake-up board after Danone “co-operation” deal

Core Viewpoint - Lifeway Foods has reached a cooperation agreement with Danone, allowing the company to move forward with clarity and stability after a period of strained relations and litigation [1][3][4]. Group 1: Relationship Background - The relationship between Lifeway and Danone has been tense over the past year, following Lifeway's rejection of two takeover bids from Danone and subsequent litigation [1][2]. - Danone, which has held a 22.7% stake in Lifeway since its investment in 1999, is considering selling its stake and has opted not to make further acquisition offers [2]. Group 2: Agreement Details - The new agreement includes Lifeway refreshing its board by appointing four new directors and separating the roles of chair and CEO, which were previously held by Julie Smolyansky [3][4]. - The litigation between the two companies will be halted, and Lifeway will comply with the previously contentious shareholder agreement [5]. - Danone has agreed to waive certain rights, including its right to appoint a board member, and will not support any board replacement proposals until after June next year [5]. Group 3: Shareholder Dynamics - The largest shareholders of Lifeway, Ludmila and Edward Smolyansky, have sought to replace the current board with nominees focused on accountability and long-term shareholder value [6].