The Coca-Cola Company has announced the sale of Chivita|Hollandia (CHI Limited) to UAC of Nigeria Plc, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Mrs. Zainab Obagun, Head of Public Affairs and Communications at Chivita|Hollandia, and made available to the media on Wednesday in Lagos.
Chivita|Hollandia is a major player in Nigeria’s food and beverage industry, with a strong portfolio spanning value-added dairy products, fruit juices, nectars, still drinks, and snacks. The Hollandia brand is a market leader in evaporated milk and drinking yoghurt, while Chivita holds a dominant position in the fruit juice category.
UAC of Nigeria Plc, a diversified holding company, is focused on domestic manufacturing, marketing, and the distribution of leading consumer brands across Africa.
According to the statement, the transaction—which is subject to regulatory approvals—aligns with Coca-Cola’s global strategy to adopt a more flexible and asset-light operational model, allowing it to focus on core brands with the highest growth potential.
Commenting on the acquisition, UAC Group Managing Director, Mr. Fola Aiyesimoju, described the move as a strategic fit that aligns with UAC’s long-term growth agenda.
“As a company with a strong footprint in Africa, we are deeply committed to the continent’s growth,” he said. “This acquisition offers an exciting opportunity to build on Chivita|Hollandia’s legacy of excellence and innovation. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at CHI Ltd. to support the next phase of the company’s growth.”
Eelco Weber, Managing Director of CHI Ltd., praised the company’s workforce for their commitment and excellence, noting that the business has been recognized as a Gold-rated Great Place to Work.
“We are proud that Chivita and Hollandia have become category leaders in dairy and juice. With the strength of our team and UAC’s backing, the future holds exciting opportunities for further expansion and innovation,” Weber said.
The acquisition represents one of the most notable corporate deals in Nigeria’s consumer goods space in recent years and is expected to reshape the competitive landscape of the dairy and juice segments.