Cargill to buy Belgian chocolate maker Smet

Cargill's cocoa and chocolate business is set to buy Smet, a leading Belgium-based supplier of chocolate and sweets decorations to the food service and confectionery markets.

The two companies intend to bring together their global gourmet chocolate activities. The acquisition of Smet will provide Cargill the significant opportunities to accelerate growth in the gourmet category. 

Inge Demeyere, Managing Director of Cargill’s chocolate activities in Europe, said, "The proposed acquisition emphasises Cargill’s commitment to its customers in the gourmet segment, building on the strengths of both organisations and enhancing complementary capabilities. We will broaden our product portfolio and services to artisans and chocolatiers, bakery, hospitality businesses and food service industries. Smet enjoys great market recognition. As their brand joins Cargill’s existing brand portfolio, their unique entrepreneurial capabilities will be leveraged to allow for a dedicated focus on gourmet customers."

Theo Graban, the Executive Member of the Board of Smet, added, "For over five decades, Smet is driven by a passion for chocolate and stands out with a relentless problem-solving attitude, innovative mindset and great flexibility."

Johan Smet, CEO of Smet, further stated, "Cargill provides us with a unique opportunity to serve our customers with a globally integrated cocoa and chocolate supply chain, a renowned sustainability approach and deep chocolate expertise."