USA: Ritter Sport expands presence with Creative Natural Products acquisition

Ritter Sport, the German family-owned chocolate manufacturer, has significantly bolstered its North American operations through the acquisition of the premium chocolate business of Creative Natural Products, a US-based confectionery firm.

The deal specifically involves the purchase of the Seattle-based brand organic and fair-trade chocolate label Theo Chocolate. Following the acquisition, Ritter Sport intends to integrate Theo Chocolate into its portfolio to strengthen its foothold in the North American organic chocolate segment. The move follows Ritter Sport’s ongoing efforts to expand its global footprint, having previously established a dedicated US subsidiary in 2015 to manage its growing interests in the region.

According to company statements, the acquisition will allow Ritter Sport to leverage Theo Chocolate’s established supply chain and brand loyalty among US consumers. Malte Dammann, CEO of Ritter Sport, commented: “The acquisition of Theo Chocolate is a logical step for us. It allows us to combine our expertise in chocolate production with a brand that has a strong presence and high credibility in the US market, particularly in the organic sector”.

The transaction marks a continuation of Ritter Sport’s strategic focus on sustainability and premiumisation. Currently, the company exports its products to over 100 countries and operates its own cocoa plantation in Nicaragua.

Source: Confectionery Production / Ritter Sport