The American dairy group SUIZA FOODS is to acquire its competitor DEAN FOODS for the sum of $1.5 billion in cash and shares. According to the terms of the agreement, the DEAN FOOD shareholders will receive $40.92 per share. After the move, the current SUIZA shareholders will hold 65% of the new entity and those of DEAN FOODS around 35%. The company, whose annual turnover is around $10 billion, will be called DEAN FOODS.