Based Lier, Gudrun is a leader in the development, production, packaging and commercialisation of real Belgian chocolates and truffles.
Founded in 1942, the company manufactures chocolates for a range of international retailers across multiple markets.
Under the terms of the agreement, Natra will acquire 100% of Gudrun from current owner Down2Earth Capital for an undisclosed fee. Completion of the transaction is subject to conditions and it is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
The deal has been designed to create a diversified chocolate platform with a focus on premium quality, innovation and sustainability capable of serving the global market.
Natra is a portfolio company of CapVest Partners and operates as one Europe’s largest vertically integrated private label and co-manufacturing platforms for chocolate products. Employing more than 1,000 people, it has six production plants in Spain, Belgium, France and Canada.
Meanwhile, Gudrun operates a manufacturing and storage facility in Lier, in addition to a significant production, packaging and distribution facility in Poland.
‘Highly complementary strategic combination’
Commenting on the transaction, Natra CEO Armando Santacesaria said: “Gudrun is a fantastic business and this highly complementary strategic combination will significantly enhance Natra’s premium Belgian chocolate offering, while also allowing Gudrun to capitalise on Natra’s global reach and deep customer relationships.
“We look forward to welcoming our new Gudrun colleagues on board once the deal completes and working with them to build on their successes to date to drive further innovation and growth.”
Sofie de Lathouwer, CEO of Gudrun, added: “Joining Natra marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Gudrun, which will allow us to bring our quality Belgian chocolates to more customers around the world.
“We are excited about this opportunity and look forward to working with our new colleagues to expand our presence and positioning as a highly valued partner, developer and manufacturer of Belgian chocolates.”
In other news, Kellanova has announced plans to invest £75m into its cereal production facility in Wrexham.
