Biscuit manufacturer Lu Polska, which is part of the French-based
Danone Group, is to close down its production plant in Jaroslaw,
Poland. The closure will result in the loss of 500 jobs.
Barry Callebaut claims that the installation of a metal detector
and conveyor belt system has significantly improved efficiency and
reduced downtime on one of its busiest production lines.
A strong rise in sales volumes in Western Europe helped Barry
Callebaut to post steady profit rise for first nine months. Company
on course to meet its target of EBIT SF200 million in 2002/03.
Strong improvements in European sales - boosted by the acquisition
of Stollwerck - helped chocolate products group Barry Callebaut
offset the impact of the weak US economy.
Barry Callebaut announced today that it has suspended efforts to
take full control of Stollwerck after minority shareholders in the
German firm filed a lawsuit against a proposed squeeze-out.
Danish ingredients company Danisco will expand its flavour creation
centres in the Netherlands and Belgium as part of the restructuring
of its flavour research and development facilities.
A major advertising and sponsorship package for the Penguin range
of biscuits, including a TV ad for the new Chukka sub-brand, kicked
off this week in the UK.
Confectionery and biscuit manufacturer Swiss Delice is planning to
expand into the UK this Autumn. The Swiss-based firm believes that
the UK market presents a major opportunity.