Barry Callebaut completes Burton’s Biscuit deal

Confectionery supplier Barry Callebaut has successfully closed its deal to supply Burton’s Biscuit Company and acquire the manufacturer’s chocolate production site near Liverpool.

The integration of the Moreton, Wirral factory has already started, with all employees currently working to manufacture chocolate at the site transferring to the new company.

The long-term agreement, which will see Barry Callebaut supply the biscuit maker with 12,000t of chocolate and compound per year, received approval from the Competition and Markets Authority last month.

Strengthening collaboration

Speaking at the reveal of the agreement in September, Barry Callebaut chief executive Antoine de Saint-Affrique 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.”

Burton’s chief executive Nick Field said Barry Callebaut’s larger network and enhanced capabilities would support Burton’s commitment to improve its chocolate covered biscuit offerings.

With annual sales of about CHF6.9bn (£5.5bn), Barry Callebaut is one of the world’s largest suppliers of chocolate and cocoa products.

Serving the industry

Operating from six production sites worldwide and employing more than 11,500 people, the group serves the entire food and drink industry – from industrial food manufacturers to artisanal and professional users of chocolate, such as chocolatiers, pastry chefs, bakers, hotels, restaurants or caterers. 

The past month has seen a number of acquisitions in the food and drink manufacturing industry.

Earlier this month, packing business Integrated Packaging Services acquired manufacturer FoodPack for an undisclosed sum, boosting turnover by more than £14m.

Meanwhile, Unilever has agreed to acquire GlaxoSmithKline’s Health Food Drinks portfolio in 22 Asian markets, including India and Bangladesh, for a total contribution on its part of €3.3bn in cash and shares.

Set up a job alert