Whitakers Chocolates Joins Bramble Foods Family in LDC-Backed Expansion

Deal News | Jan 24, 2025 | LDC

Whitakers Chocolates Joins Bramble Foods Family in LDC-Backed Expansion

LDC-backed Bramble Foods Group has acquired Whitakers Chocolates, marking a strategic expansion of its portfolio. The acquisition is characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to preserving Whitakers Chocolates' artisanal traditions. The management team of Whitakers Chocolates, led by William Whitaker, will remain in place to ensure continuity. This deal aligns with Bramble Foods' growth strategy, supported by LDC since 2022, and reflects a focus on innovation, growth, and maintaining high-quality standards for customers both in the UK and internationally.

Sectors

  • Food and Beverage
  • Private Equity

Geography

  • United Kingdom – The operations of both Bramble Foods and Whitakers Chocolates are based in the UK, and the acquisition aims to enhance customer offerings both domestically and internationally.

Industry

  • Food and Beverage – The acquisition involves Bramble Foods Group and Whitakers Chocolates, which are both part of the food and beverage industry, particularly within the specialty and artisanal chocolate sectors.
  • Private Equity – The involvement of LDC, a private equity firm, indicates the importance of private equity investment in facilitating the growth and strategic acquisitions of portfolio companies like Bramble Foods.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    Bramble Foods GroupAcquirerCompanyA food company backed by LDC, engaged in the acquisition of Whitakers Chocolates as part of its growth strategy.
    Whitakers ChocolatesTargetCompanyA UK-based artisanal chocolate manufacturer acquired by Bramble Foods Group.
    LDCPrivate Equity InvestorCompanyThe private equity arm of Lloyds Banking Group that backed Bramble Foods in 2022 and supports its growth strategy.
    William WhitakerManagementPersonPart of the Whitakers Chocolates management team, leading the company and continuing its tradition after acquisition.
    TonyManagementPersonPart of the wider management team at Bramble Foods, supported by LDC for growth strategy execution.