The Group has confirmed that premium chocolate and cocoa supplier Barry Callebaut is expanding its activity in Brazil by launching a logistics hub in the country’s northeast.
Customers in the region, ranging from wholesalers to chefs, would be able to acquire items directly from the firm, with a delivery route from the state capital of Alagoas, resulting in lower lead times, according to the Group. The facility at Extrema, Minas Gerais, will continue to supply the Bahia region (one of Brazil’s primary cocoa-growing areas).
Barry Callebaut’s new business will boost closeness to clients in the region of the country while providing better shipping conditions to partners. “Our expanded reach in the region will not only improve our ability to serve a wider range of customers but will also provide greater speed to market,” said Paul Halliwell, Managing Director of South America at Barry Callebaut Group. With more agile delivery and reduced demand for inventories by clients, Barry Callebaut anticipates a 20% boost in sales to the region.
Callebaut (Belgian-made), Cacao Barry (French), Carma (Swiss), Sicao (local), and Mona Lisa (global decorating brand) are the Group’s brands in Brazil. Since 2010, it has established a chocolate plant in Extrema (MG), which employs Brazilian cocoa beans from Bahia and Pará to make Sicao’s chocolates, fillings, toppings, and confections. “Barry Callebaut is always looking for new ways to expand access to our product line.” “Our arrival in Maceió is another step towards closer proximity to our current and future customers,” stated Bruno Scarpa, Commercial Director of South America at Barry Callebaut Group.