The Barry Callebaut Group, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, announced the deal today (19 September).
The company has also entered a long-term agreement with Burton’s for the supply of more than 12,000t of chocolate and compound per year, enabling it to expand its UK manufacturing capacity.
Barry Callebaut said it would continue producing chocolate at the Moreton site, which constitutes the sum total of Burton’s chocolate capacity. It added that all employees currently engaged in chocolate processing at Moreton would transfer to Barry Callebaut upon completion of the transaction.
Important growth area
The deal strengthens the company’s position in one of Europe’s largest chocolate confectionery markets in volume terms and an important growth area for the business, it said.
“We are delighted to strengthen the collaboration with our longstanding customer Burton’s and to further support a great British brand,” said Antoine de Saint-Affrique, chief executive of the Barry Callebaut Group. “This transaction is an excellent example of the power of long-term partnerships and outsourcing. It is also a clear sign of our commitment to support the growth of our business in the UK market.”
Nick Field, chief executive of Burton’s Food, added: “Barry Callebaut shares our passion and motivation for baking the best-quality products for our customers and consumers. This new partnership, with their larger network and enhanced capabilities, directly supports our intent and commitment to maintain and enhance our industry-leading chocolate biscuit offering.”
The transaction is subject to closing conditions and regulatory approval by the competent authorities. Completion of the transaction is expected by the end of the calendar year, after finalising all legal and social processes. The two parties have agreed not to disclose any financial details.