Nestlé to acquire Brazilian chocolate company

Nestlé has reached an agreement with Advent International to acquire a majority stake in Grupo CRM, a Brazilian chocolate company. It operates a direct-to-consumer model with more than 1000 boutiques under the Kopenhagen and Brasil Cacau brands and a growing online presence. The transaction is expected to close in 2024, subject to customary regulatory approvals.

Renata Moraes Vichi, who has been part of the company for 25 years, will continue leading Grupo CRM operations as CEO and will remain a minority shareholder.

Laurent Freixe, CEO Zone Latin America at Nestlé, said the acquisition will allow the company to strengthen its confectionery presence in Brazil and enable it to enter the high-end segment.

Kopenhagen was founded in 1928 in Brazil and has continuously evolved since. Its classic brands, such as Língua de Gato, Nhá Benta, Lajotinha, Chumbinho and Cherry Brand are iconic and well loved. The Brasil Cacau brand was launched in 2009 and is available in branded stores throughout the country.

In Brazil, Nestlé has a strong confectionery business, enabling Grupo CRM to grow in the high-end gifting segment. Nestlé will help drive innovation and growth through its global R&D capacity and help support Grupo CRM’s sustainability ambitions.

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