Bel Group ploughs $200m into Babybel production in US

Core Insights - Bel Group is investing $200 million to expand Babybel cheese production in the US, which will double the annual output of its Brookings factory to 20,000 tonnes [1] - The US is Bel's largest market, contributing to one-third of its revenue, with retail sales in the country around $1.2 billion [1] - Bel plans to double its US business again in the coming years, with the US expected to drive over half of its projected growth [2] Group 1: Investment and Production - The $200 million investment is one of Bel's largest manufacturing investments in the US [1] - The expansion aims to enhance long-term growth in the US market [2] Group 2: Market Position and Demand - Bel North America's portfolio includes other cheese brands like The Laughing Cow and Boursin, as well as fruit-based snacks [3] - Babybel is experiencing strong demand in the US, driven by consumer preferences for convenient, portion-sized dairy snacks [3] Group 3: Financial Performance - Bel Group reported a 3.2% rise in revenue on an organic basis to €1.87 billion ($2.1 billion) for the six months ending June [3] - Net profit decreased to €46.4 million from €52.7 million in the previous year [3]