Our History
Grown together – since 1884
Everything starts with an idea: achieving more together. Since 1884, Milchhof Sterzing has stood for community, quality and responsibility. Our story has been shaped by people who take initiative, think ahead and feel deeply connected to where they come from. Here you can discover the key milestones of our journey.Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen
Raiffeisen’s vision of independent cooperatives laid the foundation for the values that continue to shape us today: solidarity, responsibility, and sustainable business practices.
1818
1884
The cooperative is founded
Because of the harsh climate around the Brenner Pass, local farming families specialized in dairy and livestock farming rather than fruit and wine production. In 1884, they joined forces to establish the “Dampfmolkerei Genossenschaft Sterzing”, laying the foundation for the professional processing and marketing of regional dairy products.
The first milk centrifuge is introduced
De Laval’s new technology made butter production more efficient. It marked the beginning of industrial butter production and another important step toward innovation.
1886
1911
First expansion and modernization
The cooperative’s dairy building was modernized and extended for the first time – a clear sign of continuous progress..
First store in Vipiteno
The first shop opens, bringing fresh dairy products directly to the people of Vipiteno. Regional roots and close customer relationships are at the heart of this milestone
1928
1956
The Milkbar
The Milk Bar opens in the heart of Vipitenos Città nuova district – today known as the “Milchhalle”. A welcoming place where everyone can enjoy dairy delights..
The Stange dairy joins the cooperative
The dairy in Racines becomes part of "Dampfmolkerei Sterzing", allowing the cooperative to grow and strengthen even further..
1969
1974
Moving to Via Giovo
As the business grows, a new site is created with more space for production and future development.
The start of yogurt production
Following initial trials in the 1960s, yogurt production officially began in 1976. On 27 March 1976, the cooperative adopted the name it still carries today: Latteria Vipiteno.
1976
1983
Merger with Stilfes
The Stilfes dairy cooperative becomes part of Latteria Vipiteno – joining forces to achieve even greater strength in the market..
100 Years of Latteria Vipiteno
The cooperative celebrates its 100th anniversary, with 40 employees and 13 million kilograms of milk processed..
1984
1999
The Vipiteno Yogurt Days
In collaboration with the local tourism association and hospitality partners, Latteria Vipiteno launches the “Yogurt Days.” Since then, yogurt has been the star of a popular event series held every July in the southern Wipptal valley.
Organic products join the range
Latteria Vipiteno becomes the first dairy in South Tyrol to produce organic dairy products. Working together with the Bioland association, it expands its range to include organic milk, organic butter, and organic yogurt.
2000
2007
New logistics area
The high-bay warehouse is expanded to accommodate 3,000 pallet spaces, and the online order-picking system goes into operation. The result is more space and increased efficiency.
Photovoltaic system for sustainable energy
The roofs of Latteria Vipiteno are fitted with a modern photovoltaic system that generates up to 500,000 kWh of sustainable electricity each year – a clear commitment to responsibility and environmental protection.
2011
2014
Partnership with North Tyrol
200 farming families from North Tyrol join the cooperative, bringing the total number of members to around 600 – a strong sign of regional roots and cross-border solidarity.
New product line: hay milk
Special support is given to hay milk farmers, whose milk is collected and processed separately. From 2018 onwards, all organic milk is also produced as 100% organic hay milk.
2017
2024
Introduction of lactose-free yogurt
With the launch of lactose-free yogurt, Latteria Vipiteno expands its range with a modern product line for people with special dietary needs. The familiar creamy taste remains – for carefree lactose-free enjoyment.
Product innovation: lactose-free kefir
Kefir joins the range as an innovative new product. With this addition, Milchhof Sterzing responds to the growing demand for balanced dairy products among consumers who value a healthy and conscious lifestyle.
2025
