Danone has officially inaugurated its newly transformed plant-based beverage facility in Villecomtal-sur-Arros, southwestern France, following a two-year conversion project designed to strengthen its position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category.

The site, previously a dairy facility, has been converted into Danone France’s only oat-flour-to-oat-juice production plant, serving as a key European hub for the company’s Alpro brand.

The transformation required an investment of several million euros and includes the installation of two new production lines, one of which operates at high speed. The facility is expected to produce over 300,000 litres of oat-based beverages per day, with 90% of output destined for export across 26 European markets.

To support the site’s transition, Danone provided specialised training in plant-based processing techniques for all employees. Forty-nine staff members were trained by colleagues at Danone’s existing plant-based production site in Issenheim, eastern France, ensuring operational readiness for the new production lines.

The conversion is part of Danone’s ‘Renew Danone’ strategy, which focuses on adapting the company’s portfolio to meet changing consumer preferences for healthier and more diversified products.

With the Villecomtal-sur-Arros site now operational, Danone operates two French and four European facilities dedicated to the production of plant-based beverages under the Alpro brand.

Alpro currently serves 3.6 million regular consumers in France, with annual sales exceeding 20 million litres domestically and more than 300 million litres across Europe.

Benjamin Chevallier, country manager for plant-based at Danone France, said:

“Our Alpro brand is committed to dietary diversity, and we are working hard to meet demand. Going forward, we aim to raise awareness among France’s 67-million-strong population, stepping up production of both our oat-based ranges, rich in plant proteins, and our on-the-go formats.”

The new facility positions Danone to capture further growth within the European plant-based beverage market, a segment that continues to expand as consumers increasingly seek sustainable, high-protein, and dairy-free alternatives.