Nestlé to Acquire Major Stake in Brazilian Chocolate Company

Nestlé plans to acquire a majority stake in Grupo CRM, a premium chocolate company in Brazil. Grupo CRM operates a direct-to-consumer model, with more than 1,000 chocolate boutiques under the Kopenhagen and Brasil Cacau brands and a growing online presence.

Renata Moraes Vichi will continue to lead the Grupo CRM operations as CEO and will remain a minority shareholder. She has been with the company for 25 years and has built and significantly expanded Grupo CRM.

"This acquisition further broadens and strengthens our confectionery presence in Brazil, enabling us to enter the high-end segment. Kopenhagen and Brasil Cacau offer premium chocolates that are highly appreciated by Brazilian consumers," said Laurent Freixe, CEO Zone Latin America at Nestlé. "We are pleased that Renata Vichi will continue to lead the company with her deep knowledge and passion for the chocolate business, people and brands. Together, we will explore opportunities to further enhance the company’s unique premium chocolate experience."

In 1928, Kopenhagen was founded in Brazil and has continuously evolved through product innovation and the consumer experience. Classic brands, such as Língua de Gato, Nhá Benta, Lajotinha, Chumbinho, and Cherry Brand, are iconic and beloved by Brazilians. The Brasil Cacau brand was launched in 2009 and is available today in hundreds of branded stores throughout Brazil.

Nestlé has a strong confectionery business in Brazil, and this transaction will allow the company to grow in the high-end gifting segment. The global confectionery company will capitalize on its global research and development capacity to help drive innovation and growth. Nestlé will also support Grupo CRM’s sustainability ambitions.

The transaction is expected to close in 2024.