A holding company associated with the US-based Ferrara Candy Company is targeting CPK Group, the renowned French confectioner known for its brands, including Carambar and Lutti.
On Friday, July 11, Ferrara announced that its European holding subsidiary has entered into “exclusive discussions” to acquire CPK from the investment group Eurazeo.
While not directly owned by Ferrero Group, Ferrara operates under the same ultimate control as the prominent Italian confectionery giant.
The proposed acquisition will undergo consultation with relevant employee representative bodies, ensuring transparency and involvement in the process.
Ferrara expects to finalize the acquisition in the fourth quarter, contingent upon customary closing conditions and necessary regulatory approvals.
Founded in 2017 following Eurazeo’s purchase of 14 brands from Mondelez International, CPK quickly expanded by acquiring the French confectioner Lamy Lutti a year later.
Employing over 900 staff, CPK boasts a product range that includes Krema, Michoko, and Terry’s. Should the deal be approved, Ferrara will acquire CPK’s four manufacturing facilities located in France, as noted in their statement.
With a presence spanning more than 40 countries, Ferrara is behind prominent US confectionery brands like Brach’s, Nerds, and Trolli.
According to Ferrara, the acquisition aims to merge “CPK’s strong position in the European confectionery market with Ferrara Candy Company’s broad portfolio of sugar confections,” thereby enhancing its foothold in the food manufacturing sector.
Just two years ago, Ferrara announced two acquisitions within three months, including the purchase of Jelly Belly Candy Company in October 2023.
Additionally, in July, Ferrara acquired Brazilian snacks company Dori Alimentos through CTH, recognized as “the lead holding company of Ferrara.”
Recently, Ferrero confirmed its agreement to purchase WK Kellogg, a US-based breakfast cereal business, for $3.1 billion.
This transaction encompasses WK Kellogg’s brands across the US, Canada, and the Caribbean, including Froot Loops, Special K, Rice Krispies, and Raisin Bran.
WK Kellogg spun off from its parent company Kellogg in 2023, creating two independent public companies.
The remaining segment, Kellanova, focuses on international cereals, snacks such as Pringles, and frozen breakfast foods. It is currently navigating a $36 billion acquisition by Mars, a privately-owned confectioner, initiated in August.
