German food and beverage manufacturer Krüger Group has acquired Switzerland-based Hermes Süssstoff from pharmaceutical company Klosterfrau. The acquisition includes brands such as Hermesetas, SteviaSweet, and Assugrin. Krüger Group aims to strengthen its position as an international quality and innovation leader with this strategic move. The transaction has been completed, and business operations will continue unchanged.
Krüger Group, founded in 1971, employs around 5,600 people at 21 locations in ten countries. The company’s diverse portfolio includes brands like Schogetten, Trumpf, Kaba, and Sodapopp. In addition to sweeteners, Krüger Group produces chocolate products, coffee, infant nutrition, and sports nutrition products. Well-known brands under its umbrella include K-fee, Ludwig Schokolade, and Wilhelm Reuss.
“It generated circa €2.5bn ($2.72bn) in sales last year,” according to its website. The company also recently acquired trademark rights for the product ranges of Kaba, Suchard Express, and Benco from French confectioner Carambar & Co.
In related news, Mars has announced plans to invest €40m in a chocolate factory in Germany, specifically to support the production of its Twix brand. The project, set to span four years at the Viersen site in western Germany, will involve the installation of a new packaging line for Twix chocolate. This investment comes in response to increasing demand for the popular product, allowing for more efficient on-site packaging of additional bars.
Overall, these developments in the food and beverage industry underscore the ongoing trends of consolidation, innovation, and strategic investment in response to consumer demands and market dynamics. Companies like Krüger Group and Mars are positioning themselves for growth and competitive advantage in the evolving landscape of the food and drink business.
