Expansion
Colian UK set to become a major player in the UK chocolate confectionery category
Polish food group, Colian, owners of UK luxury chocolate brands Lily O’Brien’s and Elizabeth Shaw, is poised to more than double its UK business in the next five years to more than £50m ($70.8M), it has announced.
As it brings together the sales and distribution of its portfolio of quality confectionery brands, along with increased brand investment and access to Colian’s world-class manufacturing facilities and product development capabilities, Colian UK is set to be a major player in the UK confectionery category.
Andrew Marjoram, the company’s new Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to announce the launch of Colian UK. Since the acquisitions of Elizabeth Shaw and Lily O’Brien’s by Colian in 2016-18, both brands have experienced strong growth and it is now time to bring this talented team more closely together to spearhead growth across the group.
“As we begin the journey into a post-Covid world, there are clear opportunities to drive sales. Families, friends and loved ones will be able to reunite at last, and confectionery gifting has an important role to play in making these moments extra special. With 170 years of combined expertise, Lily O’Brien’s and Elizabeth Shaw are perfectly placed to capitalise on these trends. Harnessing Colian’s first-class resources, we will accelerate our growth and establish our brands as household names across the UK market."
The announcement comes as the total inlaid box chocolates category is valued at £445m within the grocery market. Colian estimates the total premium inlaid market at £269m, which is driving overall category growth at +9.7%.
Marjoram, who was previously Lily O’Brien’s Commercial Director, added: “Colian UK is ahead of the category growth, driven by the stellar performance of Lily O’Brien’s. The brand’s Desserts Collection is the driving force behind recent growth and has added the most value to the inlaid box category in the last year. Alongside this success, Elizabeth Shaw continues to innovate and the brand’s iconic Mint Crisp has strengthened its CSR credentials - being Gluten Free, Palm Oil Free and vegan friendly."
About Colian
Colian SA is a global food group with a portfolio of strong brands. Headquartered in Poland, Colian employs over 2,000 employees and has a diverse product range including chocolates, cookies, wafers, pralines, but also drinks, dried fruit, spices and ice cream.
