Tnuva
Tnuva (Hebrew: תנובה, meaning "produce") is an Israeli food corporation specializing in dairy products and other foodstuffs, established in 1926 as a cooperative by kibbutzim and moshavim in Mandatory Palestine to centralize the marketing of fresh agricultural produce, particularly milk and dairy.[1][2][3] Over the decades, it expanded to become Israel's largest dairy supplier, controlling approximately 70-80% of the milk market and holding monopoly status under the Israel Antitrust Authority, which subjects it to price regulations.[4][5][6] Originally owned by agricultural communities as a nonprofit cooperative integral to the Zionist settlement enterprise, Tnuva transitioned to private ownership in 2008 when a consortium led by Apax Partners acquired it amid opposition from some kibbutzim stakeholders.[7] In 2014, China's Bright Food Group purchased a controlling 77% stake for $1.04 billion, with remaining shares held by kibbutz organizations, marking a significant foreign investment in Israel's food sector.[8][9] The company has since reported record revenues, distributing substantial dividends while diversifying into areas like alternative proteins through ventures such as a collaboration with Pluristem for cultured dairy.[10][11] Tnuva's dominance has sparked controversies, including public protests over high dairy prices in 2011 and antitrust fines, such as a $7 million penalty in 2017 for price-fixing admissions, reflecting tensions between its market power and consumer interests amid government oversight.[5][12][13] Despite regulatory scrutiny, it remains a cornerstone of Israel's agricultural economy, processing milk from domestic farms and exporting products internationally.[9]