Abstract Straightforward, preparatively efficient procedures are described for the construction of β (1 [RIGHTWARDS ARROW] 4)-intergalactosidic linkages up to the hexasaccharide level. Key elements were the use of phenylthio and/or phenyl sulfoxide functionalities for glycosylations and a judiciously designed blocking group pattern for donor and acceptor alike: pivaloyl protection at O-2 for securing β-selectivity, sterically ...