The move saw the German confectioner increase its investment in Candy Kittens to 50% of its share capital, representing a majority stake in the business.
Commenting on the investment, co-founder Edward Williams said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Katjes. It symbolises a significant step in the Candy Kittens story, while also providing the recognition that validates the hard work and determination our team has demonstrated over the last seven years.
‘Vision for a more sustainable future’
“I know we have the products and brand to change the game in confectionery, and we couldn’t be happier to be working with a company that shares our vision for a more sustainable future.”
Founded in 2012, Candy Kittens’ range of gummy sweets are made without gelatine, ensuring they can claim to be 100% vegan. They are also gluten-free and free-from artificial flavours and colours.
The company currently has retail sales of £10m, which it hoped to grow to more than £50m with the help of Katjes’ investment.
‘Investing in strong brands’
Bastian Fassin, managing shareholder of Katjes International, added: "With the acquisition of the majority stake in Candy Kittens, we continue to pursue our strategy of investing in strong brands in Europe. With its natural and vegetarian fruit gums for adults, the company has been ahead of confectionery trends and is growing significantly faster than the market.”
Meanwhile, children’s frozen food firm Kiddyum has received investment from potato processor Albert Bartlett, in exchange for a 40% equity stake in the business.
Kiddyum founder and managing director Jayne Hynes said: “We’re at an important stage in the company’s development, so it’s great to get the backing of such a large, successful business – especially one that’s so well aligned with all of our values.”