Barry Callebaut said the facility in Halle, Belgium, will capitalize on the fast-growing ‘Made in Belgium’ speciality chocolate and fillings market.
Belgium chocolate & fillings
The acquisition was finalized following completion of works council consultations and closing conditions.
The factory in Halle will now be integrated into Barry Callebaut’s global manufacturing network and expand the company’s production capacity for Belgian chocolate and fillings.
The transaction also includes a long-term agreement for the supply of an additional 30,000 tons of liquid chocolate per year to Mondelēz International, which will start in early 2017.
Three-year transition period
Speaking to ConfectioneryNews in September, Björn Emde, head of media, Barry Callebaut, said it will co-manufacture consumer products for Mondelēz at the Belgian site for a transition period of three years.
The company exited consumer-facing products in 2013 after selling its last consumer brand factory to former staff members, who established the firm Chocolaterie de Bourgogne.
Emde added Barry Callebaut would serve other industrial customers in the future from the Halle site.
The company has been a longstanding partner to Mondelēz and one of its major suppliers. In 2010, the firms agreed a long-term global supply agreement.
Barry Callebaut is also working with the Cadbury owner to expand its Cocoa Life sustainability program.
Marie-Pascale Sire, MD, Mondelēz Benelux, said at the time, the deal "safeguards" the future of the Halle plant.
The Côte D’Or brand and other products at the Halle site will remain the property of Mondelēz.