Established in 1949, Freddi Dolciaria is an Italian sweet bakery based in Castiglione delle Stiviere that specializes in sponge cakes. The company plays a significant role in both the Italian retail and international markets, generating an annual turnover of approximately £17 million with a workforce of 48 employees.
Valeo, which owns over 90 brands including Kettle Chips, Rowse Honey, Barratt’s sweets, and Fox’s mints, aims to utilize this acquisition to enhance its growth in the south-western European market, thus strengthening its position in the bakery sector. Such strategic moves reflect current food manufacturing trends for increased market share and product diversification.
This acquisition fortifies Valeo’s status in the packaged wafers, cakes, and biscuits segment, complementing its existing Balconi business. The integration of Freddi is anticipated to drive sustainable and profitable growth while improving production capacity and operational efficiency, aligning well with food and drink sustainability objectives. This follows Valeo’s consistent expansion in the region, notably after acquiring Balconi in 2015, Val D’Enza in 2017, IDP Pattini in 2023, and Dal Colle in 2025.
Ronald Kers, CEO of Valeo, characterized the addition of Freddi Dolciaria to the group’s portfolio as a “fantastic” move. He stated, “Commercially, this move strengthens and broadens our product range, introducing exclusive, global licensing partnerships with leading CPGs and expanding our healthy and ‘free-from’ offerings.”
“As Freddi Dolciaria joins our portfolio, we enhance our manufacturing and logistical capabilities, adding an additional, well-invested, flexible facility to support our ambitious growth plans. This marks the next step in our vision to establish Valeo Foods as the leading European champion in sweet treats.”
Alberto Alfieri, Valeo CEO for south-west Europe, emphasized, “Freddi Dolciaria has a strong legacy of producing high-quality products that consumers love. Its product range and operational footprint align perfectly with Valeo Foods.”
“We are delighted to welcome our 48 new colleagues to Valeo Foods. Together, we will bring Freddi Dolciaria’s exceptional products to an even wider audience and accelerate the growth of our South-West European business.”
