Lindt & Sprüngli has neither explicitly confirmed nor denied weighing options to expand manufacturing in the US amid President Trump’s tariffs.
Bloomberg reported last week that the Switzerland-based premium chocolate maker could invest up to $10 million to facilitate US production for Easter items traditionally made in Germany.
Sources from the news agency indicated that these plans would focus on producing seasonal items, including Easter bunnies, Santa-themed chocolates, and various hollow chocolate figures.
We have been evaluating further investments in our production capacity in the United States for several years. We are currently expanding our production capacity at our site in Stratham, New Hampshire
When approached for clarification, a spokesperson for Lindt & Sprüngli provided a statement. They confirmed an expansion project at one of their US facilities, though they did not specify if it relates to tariffs.
Moreover, they added, “Regardless of the tariffs, we continuously work to improve the efficiency of our production and supply chains. This includes reviewing which products are manufactured at which sites and for which markets.”
Lindt & Sprüngli operates five production facilities in the US, including three dedicated to its Russell Stover confectionery unit, alongside seven in Europe.
In its 2024 annual report released in March, the company acknowledged, “In line with our sales growth, we are increasing our capacities in the United States by continuing the expansion of the production facility in Stratham, New Hampshire.”
This year, Lindt & Sprüngli reported global sales of SFr5.47 billion ($6.77 billion), with SFr2.15 billion coming from North America—SFr843 million from the US, SFr442 million from Canada, and SFr574 million from Mexico.
Interestingly, no mention of the potential impact of US tariffs appeared in Lindt & Sprüngli’s half-year report issued in July.
Organic sales rose 11.2% to SFr2.35 billion, “supported by necessary price increases to offset record-high cocoa costs” of 15.8%, as stated by the company.
However, results were mixed. EBITDA dropped 5% to SFr401.8 million, with margins falling by 250 basis points to 17.1%.
Additionally, EBIT decreased by 11.3% to SFr259.2 million, while margins fell from 13.5% to 11%. Net income also dropped 13.3% to SFr188.9 million.
As these results were released, Lindt & Sprüngli raised its sales growth forecast from 7-9% to 9-11% for the full year.
Moreover, the EBIT margin is projected to rise at the “lower end” of its 20-40 basis point range.