Nestle S.A. has signed an agreement to acquire Caravan Marketing Co., an Egyptian instant coffee company that sells product under the Bonjorno brand. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“Our investments and expansion plans in Egypt reflect the importance of this market to us,” said Yasser Abdulmalak, chairman and chief executive officer of Nestle Egypt. “In the last five years Nestle has made investments close to 1 billion Egyptian pounds ($53 million) in manufacturing and distribution facilities as well as skill development. We will continue to invest in the Egyptian market, and this acquisition comes as a reaffirmation of that.”
Mr. Abdulmalak said the acquisition will capitalize on the complementary strengths of the Nescafe and Bonjorno brands and will accelerate the development of the soluble coffee market in Egypt.
“We are proud that Bonjorno — a local brand loved by many Egyptians — will become part of our wide portfolio of international brands,” he said. “We are keen on ensuring a smooth integration process in the best interest of the business and all employees. This is an exciting growth opportunity in a dynamic category. The acquisition will combine Nestle’s strong marketing and innovation capabilities with Caravan’s distribution model and significant presence in retail. The blend of people from the two organizations will create a leading team, ideally suited to drive future growth.”
Established in 2003 as a marketing and distribution company, Caravan Marketing serves the Egyptian market with a range of soluble coffee products sold under the Bonjorno Cafe brand.
By Eric Schroeder
Source: Food Business News
Danone has appointed Carla Hilhorst to the newly created position of senior vice president of research and innovation categories and zones, as the company looks to make science the heart of its business. Hilhorst, who brings over 30 years of experience in research and innovation, will report directly to Isabelle Esser, Danone’s chief research, innovation, quality and food safety officer.
The move, part of Pernod Ricard’s strategy to enhance its premiumisation efforts, will allow the company to focus more resources on its portfolio of premium international spirits and champagne brands that drive the growth of its business. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering sustainable value for shareholders, employees, clients and partners.
Schai – who is the current CEO of Swiss chocolate company Lindt & Sprüngli’s Australian operation – has previously worked with Aryzta from 2015-2018, where he served in roles including managing director for Asia Pacific and global strategic business lead (McDonald’s). The fast-food giant McDonald’s is one of Aryzta’s significant clients.
