Food & Drink

Oatly empire: How the brand became the number one non-dairy brand in the world

Oatly

Oat milk—who doesn’t enjoy or consume one of the most popular plant-based milk alternatives in the world? 

 

In partnership with Oatly, VegClub has decided to delve deeper into the brand that doesn’t just offer products made from oats but is also deeply committed to making a positive impact on the world. Oatly’s journey from its beginnings to becoming a global powerhouse is not only a story of successful product innovation but also one of unwavering dedication to sustainability and ethical practices.

 

Oatly, the brand synonymous with oat milk, has an incredible journey that began over 25 years ago in Malmö, Sweden. Founded by Rickard Östea scientist at Lund University, Oatly emerged from a mission to create a plant-based drink that was both nutritious and environmentally friendly. This mission led to the development of a now-patented process for transforming liquid oats into what we now recognise as oat milk. From these humble beginnings, Oatly has grown into a global brand, known not only for its products but also for its strong opinions and commitment to sustainability.

 

Global expansion and market presence

 

Oatly

Oatly’s growth into an international powerhouse has been steady and strategic. The company now has a presence in over 20 countries, including key markets in North America, Europe and Asia. In the United States and Canada, Oatly has tapped into the rapidly expanding demand for plant-based alternatives. In Europe, its products are widely available in countries like the United Kingdom, Germany and of course, Sweden. Oatly has also made significant inroads into Asia, with markets in China and Australia, among others. This global expansion highlights Oatly's mission to make sustainable, plant-based living accessible to people around the world.

 

Oatly’s philosophy and ethical stance 

 

Oatly is more than just a company selling oat-based products. From its inception, the brand has been driven by a philosophy that prioritises the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants over profits. Oatly believes strongly in shifting consumption from animal-based products to plant-based alternatives as a way to ensure the longevity of the planet. The company is vocal about its belief that we should grow food for direct human consumption rather than for feeding livestock, which is an inefficient use of resources.

 

This commitment to sustainability is reflected in everything Oatly does, from its transparent marketing to its product development. The brand’s focus on oats—how to grow them, harvest them and transform them into delicious, nutritious products, sets it apart from competitors who may dabble in a variety of plant-based ingredients. Oatly’s dedication to oats has allowed it to create products that are in tune with both the needs of consumers and the planet.

 

Read more Hendersons: Elevating Scotland’s plant-based culinary scene

 

Oatly’s success is also a reference to its willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo. The company’s quirky, sometimes provocative marketing campaigns have sparked debates and attracted attention, but they have also helped to establish Oatly as a brand with a purpose. Whether through introducing new products, advocating for plant-based diets, or simply questioning traditional dietary habits, Oatly has positioned itself as a leader in the plant-based movement.

 

A diverse range of oat-based products

 

Oatly

Oatly’s product lineup reflects its deep commitment to offering high-quality, plant-based alternatives that are as versatile as they are delicious. Here’s an overview of their wide range of products:

 

  • Oat drinks: Oat drink barista edition, oat drink original, oat drink semi, oat drink skinny, oat drink chocolate and oat drink organic.

  • Oatgurt: Oatgurt natural, oatgurt Greek style, oatgurt strawberry and oatgurt vanilla.

  • Spreads and cooking: Oat spread, oat cuisine and whippable oat cream.

  • Ice creams: Oat ice cream vanilla, oat ice cream chocolate fudge, oat ice cream strawberry and oat ice cream hazelnut swirl.

  • Oat drinks mini: Oat drink mini barista edition and oat drink mini chocolate.

 

Each of these products is crafted with Oatly’s signature dedication to sustainability, quality and taste, making them ideal for anyone looking to embrace a plant-based lifestyle without compromising on flavour or convenience. For more detailed information about these products, you can visit Oatly’s official product page.

 

Oatly’s commitment to the future

 

As Oatly continues to grow, its commitment to making it easy for people to eat better and live healthier lives while respecting the planet’s resources remains at the forefront of its mission. Whether through its oat drink, which took over three decades to perfect, or through its ongoing efforts to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the plant-based industry, Oatly is more than just an oat milk company. It’s a movement—a movement that is changing the world, one oat drink at a time.

 

Oatly’s rise to becoming the world’s leading non-dairy brand is a reflection of the power of innovation, purpose-driven marketing and unwavering commitment to sustainability. From its roots in Sweden to its global presence, the brand has successfully redefined what it means to be a plant-based company by focusing on quality, ethics and environmental impact. By staying true to its mission and continuously challenging the status quo, Oatly has not only captured the market but also inspired a movement towards more sustainable and conscientious consumption. As it continues to expand and evolve, Oatly remains at the forefront of the plant-based revolution, leading the way with products that are as good for people as they are for the planet.

 

If you enjoy our articles and want to read more of our content, check out things to do in Paris while you’re not watching the games—including foodie. Perhaps take a look at ‘Making the Cut’ winner Yannik Zamboni: Redefining fashion with veganism and activism. Or explore 8 European vegan restaurants worth every penny.

 

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