Nestlé says it's global ice cream leader

Switzerland-based food group powerhouse Nestlé said it has become the world leader in ice cream after attaining full ownership of Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream Holdings Inc.

Nestlé acquired a 67% share of Dreyer’s in 2003 with plans to purchase the remainder of the firm eventually. Dreyer's, based in the United States, produces and distributes ice cream and frozen dessert products.

With a 17.5% percent market share, Nestlé said it ranks as number one in ice cream. In December, the company also acquired Delta Ice Cream, a Greek company, for about 240 million euros (US $291.2 million). Also that month, Nestlé announced it would form a joint venture with French dairy group Lactalis for chilled dairy products.