CMA clears Barry Callebaut and Burton’s Foods deal

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) of the UK has cleared Barry Callebaut’s acquisition of selected Burton’s foods manufacturing assets.

In September, the CMA stated that it would like to consider if the deal would lead to a “substantial lessening of competition”. It also sought comments on the deal from any interested party.

Barry Callebaut will purchase the chocolate manufacturing assets at Burton’s Foods chocolate factory in Moreton, Wirral.

Burton’s Foods CEO Nick Field said: “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 acquisition of the chocolate manufacturing assets is also part of Barry Callebaut’s long-term supply agreement with Burton’s.

Switzerland-based Barry Callebaut, which has a £5.4bn-turnover business, signed a  long-term supply of over 12,000 metric tonnes of chocolate and compound annually.

Barry Callebaut will continue to manufacture chocolate at the Moreton site. All employees at the facility will move to Barry Callebaut following completion of the deal.

At the time of the announcement of the deal, 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.”