The Lactalis Group, a leading Italian agri-food company with brands such as Galbani, Parmalat, Zymil, Ambrosi, and Mandara, has announced an investment plan of over €27 million by 2028 to expand and modernize the Mandara site, a historic facility specializing in the production of buffalo mozzarella.
Founded in 1950 in the heart of the Mozzarella di Bufala Campana DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) area, the Mondragone plant is now undergoing a transformation aimed at increasing efficiency and production capacity. The project includes a new warehouse and a new dairy, with the goal of increasing annual production by 60%, from 6.000 to 10.000 tons by 2028.
The plant currently employs 85 people in the winter and up to 130 in the summer, adapting to seasonal demand. The new configuration will allow for the launch of innovative production lines and the development of new products, strengthening Mandara's role as a benchmark in the industry.
“Our companies keep traditions alive, respecting specifications and benefiting from Lactalis' investment power and global network,” explained Michele Fochi, General Manager of Castelli & Ambrosi. “We want to make Mandara an increasingly prominent player in Italy and abroad.”
Today, approximately 50% of Mandara's production is exported, exceeding the industry average (38,3%). The plant supplies buffalo mozzarella under the Mandara, Vallelata, and Galbani brands.
Lactalis also operates in Campania with Latte Berna in Piana di Monte Verna: overall, the group has 240 employees, 330 suppliers, and an estimated economic impact of €200 million in the region.
