Swiss chocolate manufacturer Maestrani Schweizer Schokoladen has successfully acquired the family-owned Belgian pralines producer Delafaille.
Although the financial terms of this significant acquisition remain undisclosed, it marks a pivotal moment for both companies.
In addition to acquiring Delafaille’s shares, the transaction includes the company’s subsidiary Ostrapack, located in Ostrava, Czech Republic, which specializes in chocolate packaging.
Maestrani announced on LinkedIn that this deal presents an “opportunity to expand its product range to include Belgian praline and truffle specialties, while simultaneously strengthening its international market presence.”
Since its establishment in 1999, Delafaille, based in Beveren, has specialized in manufacturing and packaging molded pralines, enrobed seashells, and cocoa-dusted truffles.
Furthermore, Maestrani highlighted that the newly acquired company has a “strong focus” on exports, with key markets including the US, Latin America, and Asia.
Delafaille’s diverse product range is distributed globally through various channels, including retail and private label partnerships, according to the Swiss group.
Maestrani, which owns renowned brands such as Munz, Minor, and Avelines, confirmed that it intends to “retain the current team” at Delafaille.
Post-acquisition, Paul Daems, Delafaille’s current owner and CEO, will assist with the transition for a “limited period,” while a new CEO will be appointed to lead Delafaille in the future.
In a related move, Maestrani also acquired the Swiss chocolatier Chocolat Ammann in April. This strategic acquisition, which was founded by Theodor Ammann in 1949, aims to “secure” the brand’s future.
Both Maestrani and Chocolat Ammann have established national distribution channels in Swiss retail and export markets.
These recent acquisitions follow what Maestrani characterized as a “successful” revitalization of its Geneva praline brand, Avelines, in 2022.
