Emmerich / DE. (kf) The Katjes International GmbH + Co. KG Group continues to make purchases in Italy and acquires a majority stake in the Piedmont-based company Dulcioliva S.r.l. In this regard, the Italian subsidiary of Katjes International, Sperlari S.r.l., has signed an agreement to acquire 75 percent of Dulcioliva. The remaining 25 percent of the shares are held by Luigi Oliva, who was the largest single shareholder prior to the transaction and is a grandson of the company’s founders.
Founded in 1924 in the province of Cuneo, Dulcioliva has extensive experience in the production of chocolate specialties such as gianduotti, truffles and other chocolates and is the market leader of traditional cuneesi from Piedmont. The current management of Dulcioliva, including the founder’s grandson Giuseppe Oliva, will be taken over by Sperlari, ensuring continuity in business operations.
«With this transaction, we are further expanding our strong market position in Italy,» said Tobias Bachmüller, managing partner of Katjes International. «From the combination of the iconic confectionery brand Sperlari and the chocolate expertise of Dulcioliva, we expect synergies in the home market Italy as well as in exports.» The transaction is expected to close at the end of June. The acquisition will be financed from cash flow.
