MORTON GROVE, ILL. – Fermented dairy manufacturer Lifeway Foods, Inc., extended its distribution reach to another continent, revealing its products now may be purchased in the South African market for the first time.

The company shared that it is exporting its Lifeway Kefir and ProBugs overseas to independent retailers and health food stores in South Africa.

Per Lifeway, the distribution plan also calls for limited initial placements at established retail chains in the market, such as Pick n Pay and Shoprite.

Julie Smolyansky, president and chief executive officer, said the team at the Illinois-based kefir and cheese company is excited to introduce its kefir products to consumers in South Africa.

"Lifeway is taking a thoughtful approach to global expansion and seeking out markets that are primed for success and can be accessed without major capital investment,” Smolyansky explained. “The trends around cultured dairy drinkables have never been better, and I look forward to strategically building the Lifeway business worldwide."

Citing data from researcher Global Market Insights, Lifeway noted the global kefir market is projected to grow at a CAGR of more than 6.3% and reach $4.9 billion by 2032.