Barry Callebaut confirms deal for Burton’s UK chocolate manufacturing
The Barry Callebaut group has confirmed a deal with the UK’s Burton’s Biscuit Company for its manufacturing facilities in Moreton, Wirral, near Liverpool.
According to the Swiss-headquartered firm, the move also includes the supply of over 12,000 metric tons of chocolate and compound per year, as part of the company’s plans to expand its share of the significant British market.
The deal, for an undisclosed sum, would mean that all Burton’s employees engaged in chocolate production at the Moreton facility would transfer to Barry Callebaut, which is this year enjoying a strong response to its major product release of ruby chocolate.
Consumers in the UK have already given a strong response to the new ‘fourth type’ of chocolate, which launched last year in Shanghai, as well as gaining a European and UK launch earlier this year to widespread acclaim. Industry observers had questioned its claim to being a brand new category of chocolate confectionery, but the company has insisted that it stems from a specific ruby bean that it spent over a decade using as the basis for its latest recipe.
Antoine de Saint-Affrique, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group, said: “We are delighted to strengthen the collaboration with our longstanding customer Burton’s and to further support a great British brand. 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, CEO of Burton’s Food Ltd., added: “I am pleased to announce the signing of a long-term supply agreement with Barry Callebaut, the world’s leading chocolate manufacturer. 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.
