Yoplait sues Danone over Skyr product dispute in Ireland

IRELAND – Yoplait Ireland, a subsidiary of the French dairy cooperative Sodiaal, has filed a lawsuit against Danone in Ireland’s High Court, alleging that Danone imitated its Yoplait Skyr yogurt range. 

The legal action, lodged on April 11, claims Danone’s Light & Free Skyr products infringe on Yoplait’s brand identity, a practice known as “passing off.” 

This marks another chapter in the competitive dairy market, where both companies vie for dominance in the high-protein yogurt segment.

According to a statement from Yoplait Ireland’s managing director, Andrew Burke, the company is determined to protect its brand. 

“We have issued proceedings against Nutricia Ireland, a Danone subsidiary, to address the imitation of our Skyr yogurt range,” Burke said. 

Yoplait’s Skyr, launched in Ireland in September 2022, is marketed as a creamy, protein-rich product made using an authentic Icelandic recipe. 

The brand has gained traction with extensive marketing, securing shelf space in major Irish supermarkets.

Danone, a global dairy giant, responded cautiously. “We note the legal proceedings initiated by Yoplait, but as a matter of policy, we do not comment on ongoing litigation.”

Danone’s Light & Free Skyr, sold at retailers like SuperValu, competes directly with Yoplait’s offering, targeting health-conscious consumers seeking low-fat, high-protein options. 

The dispute highlights the growing popularity of Skyr, a strained yogurt known for its thick texture and nutritional benefits.

This is not the first legal clash between the two brands in Ireland. 

A previous trademark dispute in 2010, when Yoplait was licensed by Glanbia, centered on Danone’s Essensis trademark. Ireland’s Supreme Court ultimately ruled in Danone’s favor, finding sufficient evidence of genuine use. 

That history adds context to the current case, which is set for mention in the Commercial Court on April 29.

A report by market analysts notes that Skyr has become a key growth driver in the European dairy sector, with sales projected to rise by 8% annually through 2027. 

Yoplait, fully owned by Sodiaal since 2021, has expanded its Skyr line internationally, including a recent UK launch as Skyr Natural, targeting adult consumers. 

Danone, meanwhile, has bolstered its Skyr portfolio since introducing it in France in 2021, adapting products to local tastes.

The outcome of this lawsuit could influence branding strategies in the competitive yogurt market. 

Both companies face pressure from rivals like Chobani and Siggi’s, which also capitalize on the Skyr trend. 

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