C+F Confectionery and Foods S.A. and Perfetti Van Melle Group B.V. announce that Perfetti Van Melle has closed the acquisition of Mondelēz International’s gum business in the United States, Canada and Europe (excluding Portugal pending a regulatory clearance). The acquisition expands Perfetti Van Melle’s portfolio, which includes iconic global brands such as Mentos, Chupa Chups and Airheads. Herewith the company has boosted its position as a global leader in the confectionery industry.
Egidio Perfetti, Chairman of C+F Confectionery and Foods S.A. and Perfetti Van Melle Group B.V. commented, “This acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategic goal of becoming a global leader in gum, our chosen focus. We expect to further bolster our product portfolio, manufacturing capacity, market distribution and financial results. Doubling our size in North America and increasing our reach in Europe serving more consumers with our well-loved brands. With a passion for gum, our strong innovative background and family history, we are very pleased and proud to welcome the new people, brands and plants that have joined us today.”
The acquisition includes the gum brands Trident, Dentyne, Stimorol, Hollywood, V6, Chiclets, Bubbaloo and Bubblicious in the United States, Canada and Europe, as well as the European candy brands such as Cachou Lajaunie, and La Vosgienne. The manufacturing facilities in Rockford, IL USA and Skarbimierz, Poland are also part of the deal expanding its number of manufacturing operations to a total of 33 sites.
With the addition of R&D expertise for the gum category, a combined new R&D will be formed with the competencies, knowledge, and research that has been built up over decades. Resulting in a new leading global innovation hub for gum and packaging.
With direct commercial operations in France, Denmark and Switzerland, we are significantly expanding our presence throughout Europe. Perfetti Van Melle has welcomed close to 1,000 new employees, bringing the total global workforce to over 19,000.
As described above, the Portugal portion of the business is being retained by Mondelēz until regulatory approval for its transfer is granted by the Portuguese Competition Authority. Perfetti Van Melle expects to receive such approval soon, following which the Portugal portion of the business will also be sold and transferred to the Perfetti Van Melle Group.
