Barry Callebaut to acquire Burton’s chocolate manufacturing assets

Swiss company Barry Callebaut has agreed to acquire the chocolate manufacturing assets of the UK-based Burton’s Biscuit Company.

Financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed by the companies.

Under the deal, Barry Callebaut will acquire assets of Burton’s chocolate factory in Moreton, Wirral, UK.

Barry Callebaut Group CEO 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.”

The Swiss firm noted that it will continue to produce chocolate products at the Moreton site and all the existing employees engaged in the manufacture of chocolate at the facility would be transferred to Barry Callebaut upon completion of the transaction.

Additionally, Barry Callebaut has also signed an agreement with Burton’s for a long-term supply of more than 12,000 metric tonnes of chocolate and compound per annum.

The deal is expected to further enhance Barry Callebaut’s manufacturing capacity in the UK.

Burton’s Food CEO Nick Field said: “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.”

Completion of the transaction is subject to closing conditions and regulatory approvals and is expected to take place by the end of the calendar year.