M&As
Ferrara Candy Company to acquire Jelly Belly Candy Company
The proposed acquisition would combine Jelly Belly Candy Company’s more than 100 flavours of Jelly Belly jelly beans and gourmet specialty confections with Ferrara’s broad portfolio of sugar candies.
Once the acquisition closes, expected by the end of 2023 subject to certain closing conditions, nearly 800 global Jelly Belly employees and its facilities in California, Illinois, and Thailand will join the Ferrara organisation.
Jeff Brown, who is currently the Executive Vice President of Global Operations and Distribution of Jelly Belly, will become its Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited to bring Jelly Belly’s imaginative products and talented team into the Ferrara community,” said Marco Capurso, Chief Executive Officer of Ferrara. “Our dedication to creating high-quality, innovative sugar confections for the world and our deep relationships with retailers aligns perfectly with the Jelly Belly track record and passion for quality, reliability, and customer service. We look forward to working together to build on the success of all our brands.”
Candy-making family
Jelly Belly Candy Company’s roots date back to its founding in Illinois in 1869 and it has continued to be family-owned and operated by the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of the Rowland candy-making family.
Its signature brand of Jelly Belly jelly beans is one of the most recognisable candy products in the world since its introduction in 1976, with an extensive portfolio of more than 100 flavours and a strong track record of sustained and profitable growth.
Privately owned, but related to the Ferrero company, Ferrara is one of the leading US sugar confections company and the manufacturer of 20 brands such as Black Forest, NERDS, SweeTARTS, and Trolli.
“As we considered the future of Jelly Belly Candy Company, we have been steadfast in our commitment to create a win-win situation for our employees, consumers, and products,” said Herman Rowland, Sr., Chairman of the Board of Directors of Jelly Belly. “When I met with the Ferrara team, I recognised a like-minded group that shares our knowledge and passion for the candy business and has the talent and resources to grow our products and the careers of our people around the world. I am confident of the continued success of Jelly Belly as part of the Ferrara portfolio.”
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
