The Barry Callebaut Group has announced the signing of a long-term agreement with Morocco’s Attelli SARL, a distributor and confectionery manufacturer based in Casablanca, and part of the French COFRAPEX Group.
Lebanese company Master Chewing Gum & Candies has introduced a gourmet gum brand in unconventional flavors such as mojito as it looks to seize on the Middle East’s changing gum market.
Private equity firm Abraaj Group has acquired a stake in Moroccan chocolate company Kool Food and plans to expand distribution in the Middle East and Africa.
Currently the Middle East represents just over 3% of Brazilian confectionery exports, but potential far exceeds that, according to Brazil's industry trade association.
Young, self-confident and increasingly wealthy populations in North Africa and the Middle East offer big opportunities for food and beverage firms – but there are risks too, according to ingredient company Wild GmbH.
Kraft Foods has acquired the remaining 50% stake not already owned in Biscuiterie Industrielle du Moghreb (BIMO), a leading biscuits manufacturer in Morocco.
Specific taste preferences and lower volume needs are factors behind the hike in demand from small confectionery producers in developing countries, particularly in the African region, for mid-range versions of established machinery, notes GEA.