Colian

Colian, a Polish manufacturer of confectionery, dried fruit and drinks, is to acquire Irish chocolate firm Lily O’Brien’s from investment fund The Carlyle Group for €40 million ($48 million). “Lily O’Brien’s represents a compelling strategic fit for Colian with its high level of brand recognition and market position, complementing Colian’s existing products”, The Carlyle Group said in a press statement. Founded in 1992, Lily O’Brien’s employs 120 people at its Newbridge …

Poland-based confectionery firm Colian has acquired British chocolatier Elizabeth Shaw in a deal worth £2.3 million ($3.4 million), according to a report in Reuters. Elizabeth Shaw produces chocolate-based confectionery, including Famous Names chocolate liqueurs and Elizabeth Shaw after dinner mints. Commenting on the acquisition, Elizabeth Shaw managing director Karen Crawford  said: “Colian has a wealth of experience in the confectionery market and ambitious growth plans. The acquisition of Elizabeth Shaw …