A history as rich as our produce

1930’s, humble beginnings:

In a small section of Birt’s cold stores on Stanley St in South Brisbane, dairy distributor “Pauls Polar Perfections Pty Ltd” was established.

1942, a few firsts:

Our innovative spirit was exemplified through the introduction of bulk milk transport in Queensland through Paul’s use of a 1000 gallon stainless steel tanker. 6 years later in 1948, Pauls also introduced the first square milk bottles with foil caps in Australia.

1960, developments in dairy:

Pauls Polar Perfections Pty Ltd was established in Queensland as a milk and ice cream company named Queensland United Foods.

1968, international exports:

Queensland United Foods went global when it opened the first ultra-high temperature longlife milk plant, becoming a dairy distributor to countries in South America and the Pacific Islands. In response to the expansion, the company changed its name to Q.U.F. industries.

1980s, innovation and expansion:

Q.U.F. industries teamed up with Petersville to manage icecream operations. Innovation and expansion flourished once again in 1982 when Pauls became the first dairy distributor to export produce via airfreight. In 1988, Pauls half share of Q.U.F. industries was sold and Q.U.F. industries was appointed Australian Licensee for Danone yoghurts and dairy desserts. Q.U.F. expanded through the acquisition of Maryborough and South Burnett milk businesses.

1990s, a new venture:

Several acquisitions across Victoria and Queensland took place during 1992-1996, including that of Sandhurst Dairies Ltd, Associate Dairies and Port Curtis Dairy. It was also during this time that the Norco Dairyfields Milk Joint Venture was formed. Pauls held 22% interest of the venture.

1998, introducing Lactalis:

A monumental year. QUF changed its name to Pauls Limited and was taken over by Lactalis Australia Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of the Italian company Lactalis.

2006-2009, company growth continues:

In 2006, the joint venture with Norco ended. A year later in 2007, the company continued to grow with the establishment of a National Distribution Centre in Richlands, Brisbane. In 2009, Lactalis Australia Pty Ltd acquired sites in Clarence Gardens, South Australia and Lidcombe, New South Wales from National Foods.

2011, working with the world’s best:

July 2011 saw family-run and world number 1 dairy company, Lactalis become the majority shareholder in Lactalis Australia.

2014, brand diversification:

The acquisition of the Harvey Fresh site in Western Australia established Lactalis as a national brand. Lactalis also expanded into the new territory of cheese with specialist brands Lemnos and Jindi. 2014 also saw the launch of the internationally renowned French cheese brand, President and the purchase of the Longwarry Food Park by Lactalis.

2016, further expansion

Lactalis Australia acquired the Tamar Valley and Ski yoghurt and dairy brands, further strengthening its fresh dairy portfolio.   This acquisition also included two manufacturing facilities at Tamar in Tasmania and Echuca in Victoria.

Lactalis Foodservice continues to grow and provide everyday fresh ideas and inspiration to our business partners within the foodservice market. Our rich heritage in Australia combined with our global ownership enables us to serve our customers with an unrivalled brand portfolio including iconic brands such as Pauls, Vaalia, Tamar Valley, Oak, Ice Break, President, Galbani and Lemnos.

Lactalis Foodservice has incomparable access to, and knowledge of, worldwide trends and expertise, keeping menus fresh and you and your business informed.