Global food equipment and energy technologies supplier GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft, Bochum, Germany, said it expects by mid 2011 to purchase Convenience Food Systems (CFS).

Palladium Equity Partners, LLC, New York City, said it sold Castro Cheese Company, Inc., to Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. ("DFA").

Organic Valley, America’s largest cooperative of organic farmers and one of the nation’s leading organic brands, said it is planning a $6.1 million addition to its La Farge, Wis., headquarters.

Artisan and premium cheese processor Sartori Foods, Plymouth, Wis., said it purchased Tellory Inc., a Boulder County, Colo., processor of premium Ciolo and Piccolo refrigerated retail pesto, dips and spreads.

New Zealand's Fonterra Co-operative Group said it hired Giovanna "Gigi" Vita as president of Fonterra North America.

Mozzarella cheese giant Leprino Foods Inc., Denver, expects by next fall to complete the first phase of a $270 million cheese processing facility in Greeley, Colo.

Goat cheese processor Cypress Grove Chevre, Arcata, Calif., said it was purchased by Emmi Holding (USA) Inc., Monroe, Wis., for an undisclosed amount.

Swiss Valley Farms Cooperative, Davenport, Iowa, announced an acquisition as well as a joint venture manufacturing company.

Denmark's Arla Foods amba said it expects by early summer 2011 to expand its Hollandtown, Wis., cheese facility.

Great Lakes Cheese Co. Inc., Hiram, Ohio, completed an $80 million expansion at its Adams, N.Y., cheese plant.