Barry Callebaut, Unilever Sign Partnership Agreement

LONDONBarry Callebaut and Unilever signed a long-term global partnership agreement wherein Barry Callebaut will become Unilevers strategic global supplier and innovation partner of choice for its cocoa and chocolate needs.

The agreement will nearly double Barry Callebauts current volumes with Unilever, and will ultimately result in Barry Callebaut providing 70% of Unilevers global cocoa and chocolate products. Under terms of the agreement, Barry Callebaut will invest approximately US $24 million in its worldwide factory network in order to prepare the capacity required to fulfill the long-term partnership agreement.

Kevin Havelock, President of Unilevers Refreshment Category, said: Our ice cream category has a significant role to play in Unilevers sustainable growth model to deliver our ambition of doubling the size of our business whilst reducing our environmental impact. Our leadership position has been built on great taste, innovation and increasingly sustainable ingredients. We need partners like Barry Callebaut to help us extend this position and achieve our overall aim."

Juergen Steinemann, CEO of Barry Callebaut, said: We are honored that we can announce this long-term partnership with Unilever today and be part of their Partner to Win" strategy. This agreement is based on a successful long-standing collaboration between our two companies. Once again, it confirms that by living our four strategic pillars1 we can accomplish and deliver on the requirements of our customers."