Mondelez Grocery Division
Grocery products division producing cheese, nuts, and specialty food items.
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Ares Management2021-12-08
What Made It Great
Strong portfolio of grocery brands with international distribution
What PE Will Likely Do
Cheaper, lower-quality ingredients used in Mondelez's cheese, nut, and specialty food products
Reduction in package sizes for Mondelez's grocery items while maintaining or increasing prices (shrinkflation)
Consolidation of Mondelez's manufacturing facilities, leading to disruptions in supply and potential changes in product formulas
Substitution of branded ingredients in Mondelez's products with generic or lower-cost alternatives
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Minimal visible changes as ownership transition occurs
“6 to 12 months months”
Behind-the-scenes changes to suppliers and product formulas begin
“12 to 18 months months”
Consumers start noticing quality differences in Mondelez's cheese, nuts, and specialty food items
“18 to 36 months months”
Mondelez's brand reputation begins to suffer, and consumer complaints about quality increase
Similar Cases
Other companies that followed a similar path after PE acquisition
What You Can Do
Actions
Be vigilant for changes in the quality and quantity of Mondelez's grocery products, such as different ingredients, smaller package sizes, or altered product formulas
Consider switching to alternative grocery brands if Mondelez's quality and value proposition becomes significantly diminished
Voice your concerns and complaints to Mondelez and regulatory authorities if you notice significant quality degradation in their products
Alternatives
Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses