DWF advises on completion of biscuit plant sale
DWF has advised Burton’s Biscuit Company on the sale of its chocolate manufacturing refinery, in Wirral, to Swiss chocolate firm Barry Callebaut, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, for an undisclosed sum.
The deal was announced in September, but was subject to satisfaction of certain conditions and so only completed last week.
It will see the Moreton refinery integrated in to the Barry Callebaut network, enabling the Zurich-based business to boost its manufacturing presence in the UK, and comes after the business signed a long-term supply agreement with Burton’s for 12,000 tonnes of chocolate and compound per year.
Nick Field, chief executive of Burton’s Food, said: “Barry Callebaut shares our passion and motivation for baking the best quality products for our customers and consumers.
“This new partnership, with their larger network and enhanced capabilities, directly supports our intent and commitment to maintain and enhance our industry-leading chocolate biscuit offering.”
Will Munday, from DWF’s corporate team, advised Burton’s on the sale of the chocolate manufacturing plant.
Paul Attwood, client partner for Burton’s, and Melanie Kay, advised Burton’s on the long-term supply agreement with Barry Callebaut, and Helen Thomas advised Burton’s on the property aspects of the transaction.
Paul Attwood
Paul Attwood said: “We are delighted to act on behalf of the UK’s second largest biscuit maker – famed for iconic and much-loved brands such as Maryland, Wagon Wheels and Jammie Dodgers – on the strategic sale of its chocolate making assets.
“The transaction is another example of our market-leading corporate and commercial expertise in the food sector.”
DWF’s food sector specialists work throughout the food supply chain across the EU and beyond – supporting new entrants as well as household names in making their products a success.
Significant recent deals include advising PepsiCo on the intended acquisition of premium crisps brand, Pipers Crisps.
