Barry Callebaut has sold its European consumer business Stollwerck to the Belgian Sweet Product/Baronie Group, but the two companies aren’t cutting ties completely.

The deal comprises the entire Stollwerck Group, including five factories in Germany, Belgium and Switzerland.

In addition though, the proposal includes a long-term supply agreement between Baronie Group and Barry Callebaut for approximately 25,000 tons of liquid chocolate annually as well as the additional supply of cocoa beans and semi-finished products.

Juergen Steinemann, ceo of Barry Callebaut, the world’s largest leading manufacturer of high-quality cocoa and chocolate products, says that the company is very satisfied with the deal.

“We believe that we found a very good new home for our European consumer business and our former colleagues,” he says. “Additionally and thanks to our long-term supply agreement, the Baronie Group and Stollwerck will become important long-term strategic partners of Barry Callebaut.”

The two parties have agreed not to disclose any financial details of the transaction, which is subject to antitrust assessment. The deal is expected to close this fall.

Fons Walder, owner and ceo of Sweet Products, says his company is pleased to be adding Stollwerck to is existing business.

“Stollwerck, its private label business and branded business are highly regarded in the market," he says. “We welcome the management team and all employees of Stollwerck.”

Stollwerck, founded in 1839 and bought by Barry Callebaut in 2002, produces chocolate confectionery products and offers an extensive portfolio to retailers in Europe.

For more information on Barry Callebaut, visit www.barry-callebaut.com; for more information on Sweet Products and Baronie, visit www.baronie.com.