The Board of Kerry Co-Op says it remains 'open to evaluating opportunities' after the announcement yesterday that talks between the board and Kerry Group, on a possible joint venture deal, have been suspended.
Kerry Group announced in February that it was conducting a strategic review of its dairy-related businesses in Ireland and the UK.
It had been in discussions in recent months with Kerry Co-op, in relation to potential joint venture whereby the Co-op would buy a 60% stake in Kerry Group's dairy business.
However Kerry Group said yesterday that these talks had been suspended.
A widely-circulated document claimed the agreement would include Kerry Co-op buying the entire dairy business within three to five years, which led to concern among some shareholders and milk suppliers.
A statement released by Kerry Co-Op last night said its prime focus was protecting the interests of it stakeholders.
