CÉMOI Group acquires Pittsburgh-based Chris Candies
Move will help French company strengthen position in North America.
French chocolate manufacturer CÉMOI Group has acquired Chris Candies, a Pittsburgh, Penn.-based private label and contract manufacturing company with premium, organic and low-sugar offerings.
Chris Candies, which had been owned by private investors, will help CÉMOI to “reinforce its position in North America on its historical know-how,” the company said in a news release.
“Indeed, purchased in 1962 by the Poirrier family, CÉMOI established itself as the pioneer on this market.” the release reads. “Now recognized in this field, the Group managed to develop its facilities through external acquisitions. It has a wide range of chocolates not only under private labels, but also under its own brand, targeting the core and premium market segments.”
CÉMOI Group currently distributes its products in more than 50 countries. Its turnover reaches $870 million, 50 percent of which is generated outside France. Its Northern American branch, CÉMOI Inc., achieved in 2016 a turnover of $12 million. On this market, the Group has several strategic activities: the CÉMOI brand products for consumers and chefs, and private label products.
Founded in 1940 by George Christ, Chris Candies is recognized as a specialist in moulded chocolate. The company manufactures year-round and seasonal chocolates for premium markets. Aligned with trends of healthy eating, Chris Candies is also specialized in organic, fair-trade and low-sugar chocolates.
To meet market standards, Chris Candies has many key certifications, including SQF 2000 Level 3, Kosher (OU-D), and Organic (CCOF). For certain products, the production site is also gluten free, certified GMO free, Fairtrade and vegan.
In addition to manufacturing products for other chocolate brands, Chris Candies supplies numerous supermarket chains, clubs, groceries and specialty stores channels. It has a workforce of 80 employees. Recent investments were made to improve efficiencies in moulding and packaging of its chocolates.
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