News

• Chairman video message (in German)
•  
• CEO video message (in English, with German subtitles)

• Patrick De Maeseneire reelected as Chairman
• Antoine de Saint-Affrique elected as new Board member
• All Board members reelected for a term of office of one year
• Dividend payout of CHF 28.00 per share approved
• KPMG AG, Zurich, reelected as auditors of the company

The ordinary Annual General Meeting 2021 of Barry Callebaut AG, the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, was held today under the chairmanship of Markus R. Neuhaus, Vice-Chairman of the Board. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Annual General Meeting could not take place in the usual format. To protect the health of its shareholders and employees, Barry Callebaut decided that voting rights could only be exercised by submitting the voting instructions in writing or electronically to the independent proxy. 5,177 shareholders exercised their votes, representing 4,050,747 shares and equaling 73.8% of the issued share capital.

All motions were adopted as proposed by the Board of Directors, including the reelection of Patrick De Maeseneire as Chairman and the election of Antoine de Saint-Affrique as new Board member.

All Board members, namely Patrick De Maeseneire, Markus R. Neuhaus, Fernando Aguirre, Angela Wei Dong, Nicolas Jacobs, Elio Leoni Sceti, Tim Minges and Yen Yen Tan were reelected for another term of office of one year.

The shareholders also approved the proposed payout of a dividend of CHF 28.00 per share. This represents an increase of +27.3% versus prior year and corresponds to a payout ratio of 40% of the net profit. The dividend will be paid to shareholders on or around January 6, 2022.

KPMG AG, Zurich, was reelected as auditors of the company for fiscal year 2021/22.

Barry Callebaut's fiscal year 2020/21 closed on August 31, 2021.

Chairman video message (in German)

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Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

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Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

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Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
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Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

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The publication of our fifth Forever Chocolate Progress Report marks the half-way point of our plan to make Sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025. Our progress data in 2020/21 shows that we have continued to scale our efforts and create impact on our journey to make sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025.

• 214,584 cocoa farmers estimated to be out of poverty in our direct supply chain
• Our child labor monitoring and remediation system now covers 237 farmer groups, including 220,878 farmers in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana and Cameroon
• Significant growth in Cocoa Horizons, with the premiums generating over CHF 28.4 million in funds, an increase of +63% compared to prior year
• Over -10% reduction of Land Use Change (LUC) from the impact of cocoa due to our efforts in traceability and sourcing
• 43% products sold containing 100% sustainable cocoa or chocolate

 This year, we celebrate the 5th anniversary of Forever Chocolate and I am extremely proud of the progress that we have made since 2016, creating tangible impact on the ground. Our outstanding achievements are only made possible with the expertise and dedication of our employees, partners and customers. I would like to warmly thank them for their commitment and invite other stakeholders to join us in this journey to make sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025. 

Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group

Forever Chocolate is based on four ambitious targets:

• Check out our Forever Chocolate Progress Report

 In 2020/21, we have continued to scale digital innovations, created a novel approach to measure carbon emissions, increased our individualized tailored support to cocoa farmers and developed a new approach to tackling child labor. Our application of leading innovative solutions is clearly paying off. 

Pablo Perversi, Chief Innovation, Sustainability & Quality Officer; Global Head of Gourmet

Over 500,000 cocoa farmers out of poverty by 2025

In order to lift more than 500,000 cocoa farmers out of poverty in our supply chain, it is critical to have an in-depth understanding of the conditions, challenges and potential of the farms and farmers we are working with. Our unique and extensive farm mapping database was expanded to cover 234,997 farmers with full data in 2020/21. Over the past five years, we've learned that farm-specific support is more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach. In 2020/21 a total of 125,593 cocoa farmers in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Cameroon, Brazil, Ecuador and Indonesia received Farm Services support.

For the measurement of progress against our target to lift over 500,000 cocoa farmers out of poverty by 2025, we are using as a starting point the International Poverty Line definition of extreme poverty of USD 1.90/day. But we are not stopping there. Our activities are directed to place farmers on a trajectory towards a living income and beyond, through increased productivity and income diversification. In 2020/21 we estimate 214,584 cocoa farmers (+50%) in our supply chain are out of poverty.
 

Eradicate child labor from our supply chain by 2025

Among the most prevalent types of child labor, occurring primarily on family farms, is that of children working at too young an age or working in hazardous conditions. In line with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the solution lies not in ending the sourcing from these regions, but in assessing, monitoring and remediating on the ground the risk of children becoming involved in child labor. Therefore, we continue to monitor and identify cases of child labor rigorously and with intent. This year, our monitoring and remediation systems grew +116% to cover 237 farmer groups, including 220,878 farmers in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Cameroon. In addition, 25,486 (+412%) of the reported child labor cases we found in previous years, are now under remediation. The percentage of the farmer groups we directly source from with whom we undertake child labor monitoring and remediation activities is 61%.

Our approach to eradicate child labor is a child-centered approach which starts at the local level, engaging with children, parents, families and community members to create empowered communities to help their own development and make lasting change for the future. This approach relies on a framework of collaborative action from all stakeholders. In 2020, our partnership with Embode, the internationally renowned social protection and human rights consultancy, led to the finalization of our new approach to tackling child labor. This new approach sets clear internal milestones between 2020 and 2025 to guide planning, implementation, and stakeholder engagement.

Carbon and Forest positive by 2025

Since the commencement of Forever Chocolate in 2016, we were able to reduce our overall corporate carbon intensity per tonne of product  by more than -17%. In addition, we also made outstanding progress in 2020/21 to reduce the carbon emissions caused by Land Use Change (LUC). Through the scaling of our traceability and sourcing efforts, we reduced the LUC impact from cocoa cultivation by over -10%.

A key component of evaluating our progress toward becoming forest positive is biodiversity, which includes both on-farm and off-farm efforts, such as soil regeneration and the creation of carbon sinks. By improving on-farm ecosystems, cocoa farmers can reduce the use of pesticides and fungicides. In addition, cocoa grown in the shade is linked to increased biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and nutrient retention in the soil. This year, we increased our planting capacity and are now planting over 35 trees per hectare, such as teak, mahogany and sejula, in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana. This ramp up also aligns with the requirements of the Cocoa & Forests Initiative (CFI), of which we have been a founding signatory in 2017. Due to our tree planting activities, we account for a total of 240,000 tCO₂e reduction this year alone, according to the Gold Standard Value Chain Intervention methodology.

Furthermore, we are actively participating in action-oriented business coalitions, such as World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and One Planet Business for Biodiversity (OP2B), to drive cross-commodity systemic change and restore natural biodiversity within value chains, in order to accelerate the transition towards sustainable business models.

100% sustainable ingredients by 2025

At Barry Callebaut, we are the key partner for our customers to enable them to fulfill their sustainability commitments. We work with, and implement, several sustainable cocoa programs to improve farmer livelihoods and farming practices. Among them is Cocoa Horizons, our preferred vehicle to drive impact and deliver on our Forever Chocolate ambition. In 2020/21, we have seen significant growth in Cocoa Horizons premiums, driven by strong demand from customers. The premiums from the purchase of HORIZONS cocoa products generated over CHF 28.4 million in funds, an increase of +61% compared to prior year. This uptake in demand is also reflected in the increase to 43% (+15%) of the percentage of cocoa and chocolate products sold that contain 100% sustainable cocoa or chocolate. In addition, in fiscal year 2020/21 we sourced 66% of all our non-cocoa ingredients from sustainable sources, an increase of +8% compared to the previous year.

We continued to lead the way in sustainable chocolate innovation this year. Almost two years after the development of WholeFruit chocolate, a chocolate containing only ingredients from the cacaofruit, in June 2021, Cacao Barry unleashed Cacao Barry's WholeFruit Evocao™, the first signature expression of WholeFruit chocolate. WholeFruit Evocao™ was also the first global chocolate to qualify for the Upcycled Certified mark, developed by the Upcycled Food Association.

• Forever Chocolate Progress Report 2020/21

Media Assets

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  Prospering Farmers - Forever Chocolate

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  Zero Child Labor - Forever Chocolate

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  Thriving Nature - Forever Chocolate

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  Sustainable Chocolate - Forever Chocolate

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  Our measured impact

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  Forever Chocolate Progress Report 2021 Barry Callebaut

Taryn Ridley

Working as External Affairs Manager in the Corporate Communications team of Barry Callebaut. Native Australian, but loves living in the land of the Toblerone. Passionate about a range of sports, nature and travelling.

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External Affairs Manager

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Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
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Switzerland

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• New Global Distribution Center in Lokeren, Belgium, home for all packed chocolate shipments from chocolate factories in Wieze and Halle to Western Europe and the world 
• Largest investment ever in Barry Callebaut's operations network centralizes and increases the efficiency of global logistics
• First building in the Benelux which is "BREEAM Outstanding" certified, the highest norm in sustainable building¹

The Barry Callebaut Group, world's leading cocoa and chocolate manufacturer, inaugurated today 'The Barry Callebaut Chocolate Box', its new Global Distribution Center in Lokeren, Belgium. The Chocolate Box is the world's largest chocolate warehouse and will be the logistical hub for all packed Belgian chocolate and decorations products, produced in Barry Callebaut's chocolate factories in Wieze and Halle, Belgium.

The Chocolate Box is the result of a successful partnership between Barry Callebaut, the real estate developer WDP and the city of Lokeren. With a total investment amount of EUR 100 million, it is the largest investment Barry Callebaut has ever made in its operations network. The Chocolate Box increases the efficiency of Barry Callebaut's global logistics and will allow the Group to serve customers even faster.

At Lokeren, the warehouse Is ideally located: near the E17 highway, facilitating carrier transport throughout Western Europe and with direct access to the Port of Antwerp for global shipping. Construction began in the summer of 2019. Less than 24 months later, the building, spanning a total surface of 12 football fields, was  completed. In the fully automated high bay warehouse, 41 meters high, up to 125 000 pallets can be stored at a constant temperature of 18°C. Over 120 employees, of whom 40 are in newly created positions, are securing smooth operations.

¹ _{BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) BREEAM is a sustainability certificate related to the performance of a building throughout its life cycle. BREEAM is a well established sustainability label for buildings in Europe. BREEAM applies a multi-criteria approach: the certification process examines not only the energy consumption of a property, but also land use, ecology, the construction process, water use, waste, pollution, transport, materials, health and comfort. A building can receive an overall rating of Acceptable, Pass, Good, Very Good, Excellent or Outstanding.}

First building in the Benelux with "BREEAM Outstanding" certification

The Barry Callebaut Chocolate Box is not only the world's largest chocolate warehouse, but also the most sustainable. The Chocolate Box is the first building in the Benelux with a "BREEAM Outstanding" certification, the highest standard in sustainable logistics. The building is fully energy-positive, as it can completely fulfill its own energy consumption. In order to achieve this certificate, the newest techniques in sustainable building have been used: solar panels, air treatment groups, rain water and heat recovery, humidity control, insulation and geothermal energy. The wellbeing of the employees, an essential part of the "BREEAM Outstanding" certification, is ensured through access to natural daylight throughout the building, zones for relaxation and storage facilities for e-bikes.

 The Chocolate Box is a milestone for Barry Callebaut. From Lokeren, all packed chocolate products - mainly under our Belgian chocolate brand Callebaut - will be shipped to the rest of the world. The Chocolate Box is an example of how we execute our smart growth strategy, increasing efficiency and serving our customers in a more sustainable way. 

Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group

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Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

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Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

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Korneel Warlop

Corporate Communications Director EMEA

+32 47592 2240

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Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

• Barry Callebaut leverages its deep scientific knowledge of the cacaofruit and the fruit's supportive health effect by introducing a nutraceutical fruit drink
• The new cacaofruit elixir 'Elix' has a zesty fruity taste. Promoting circulatory health.
• The health claim related to the cacaofruit flavanols present in 'Elix' is approved under the EU Nutrition and Health Claims regulation

Barry Callebaut, the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, leverages its deep scientific knowledge of the cacaofruit and the fruit's supportive health effect, by presenting the first nutraceutical fruit drink. The new cacaofruit elixir - made from 100% pure cacaofruit - has a zesty fruity taste. By unlocking the power of science, the elixir is uniquely crafted to preserve the nutrients of the cacaofruit.

The cacaofruit naturally contains the required amount of flavanols to optimize the blood flow across the entire body. It is a good source of iron, magnesium and potassium. Besides the 100% pure cacaofruit elixir, combinations with herbs and other fruits can be explored to enrich the range with beautiful taste combinations and additional nutrients. The nutraceutical fruit drink contributes to personal as well environmental health. Since it upcycles the whole cacaofruit, 'Elix' positively impacts nature and communities.

Gen X believe they need to nurture their nature

Covid accelerated consumers' interest in the beauty of food and the beneficial health effects of eating and living well. Generation X -born between the mid-1960s and the early-1980s - believe they need to nurture their nature. To keep their body and mind strong, they look out for whole foods that are scientifically proven to actively support their health. They are well informed about which, and what amount, of macro- and micro nutrients to consume.

The cacaofruit elixir has been tested and validated through consumer research by independent global research agency MMR in the UK and the US. As part of these studies Elix's consumer appeal and purchase intent have been tested, indicating a high interest in the new nutraceutical fruit drink category.

 The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated consumers' interest in their own health as well as in the health of their environment. The introduction of this new category of nutraceutical fruit drinks is another proof point of how Barry Callebaut, through its innovation capabilities and its profound knowledge of the cacaofruit, is able to cater to evolving consumer trends. 

Peter Boone, CEO of Barry Callebaut Group

Promoting circulatory health

The health effects of cacaofruit flavanols have been studied by experts across the globe for decades and they have found sound scientific proof of their benefits on human health and wellness. Barry Callebaut's deep scientific knowledge of the cacaofruit and the effect of the fruit's flavanols on circulatory health are recognized by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which resulted in the approval of the related health claim under the EU Nutrition and Health Claims regulation. Cacaofruit flavanols help maintain the elasticity of blood vessels which benefits the blood flow to, for example, organs such as the heart, muscles, brain, and skin.

The science of cacaofruit

Composed of almost 20,000 different types of molecules, the seed of the cacaofruit is one of the most complex food substances on earth. The R&D behind the cacaofruit elixir 'Elix' took Barry Callebaut more than 15 years. In addition, there is data available from more than 100 human clinical studies which provide sound scientific proof of the health effects of the cacaofruit flavanols.

Media Assets

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  ELIX drink Barry Callebaut

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  ELIX drink Barry Callebaut

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  Barry Callebaut unveils nutraceutical ELIX

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  Barry Callebaut unveils nutraceutical ELIX

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  Barry Callebaut unveils nutraceutical ELIX

Note: The event took place in full accordance with the Dutch COVID-19 regulations.

Barry Callebaut unveils the first nutraceutical fruit drink

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Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

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Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

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Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

• The new CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center Dubai relocated to the foot of Burj Khalifa to provide the best possible platform for chefs and artisans to showcase and develop their talent and skills
• CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center Dubai offers inspiration, training and support for professionals. This is an essential support for businesses to help them win in the market

The Barry Callebaut Group, the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, just inaugurated its relocated CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center Dubai, which is now at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, one of the world's most iconic landmarks. This new location and facility serves as a creative platform where chefs and artisans can showcase and develop their talent and skills. As CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center Dubai is part of the wider CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center network with 24 academies across the globe, it will be the premier platform for bringing renowned chefs to Dubai to inspire, train and advise local artisans.

With a team of dedicated chefs, CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center Dubai plays an important role in inspiring and educating the chocolate industry and introducing new techniques to artisans, pastry chefs, confectioners, bakers and caterers. The CHOCOLATE ACADEMY^TM Center Dubai also plays an important role in driving innovation as consumption patterns shift towards premiumization and new concepts in terms of design, color and flavors. Courses and events with physical attendance will resume as of October 21.

 The chocolate market is recovering in the Middle East region. The CHOCOLATE ACADEMY Center Dubai supports local businesses in finding the right chocolate solutions to help them win in the market. From empowering women and young talents, to supporting new concepts: The CHOCOLATE ACADEMY Center Dubai is the place to be in the Middle East region for everything related to chocolate. 

Amine Mebrouki, General Manager Middle East & North Africa

 This is an important moment for Barry Callebaut's presence in the Middle East region. The relocated CHOCOLATE ACADEMY Center Dubai will strengthen the collaboration with our customers in the growing Middle East region, helping them to develop their own profile in terms of taste and flavor. Initiatives like this help to grow the Gourmet business in the Eastern part of our EMEA Region. 

Rogier van Sligter, President EMEA

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Korneel Warlop

Corporate Communications Director EMEA

+32 47592 2240

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Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

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Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

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Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

• New state-of-the art factory in Novi Sad inaugurated by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group
• Representing an investment of EUR 55 million EUR, the factory has an initial annual production capacity of over 50,000 tonnes of chocolate
• The factory will serve as a regional hub from which Barry Callebaut can address the rapidly growing chocolate markets of Southeastern Europe

Today, the Barry Callebaut Group, the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, officially inaugurated its new chocolate factory in Novi Sad, Serbia's second largest city. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić was present at the inauguration, on the invitation of Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group. The visit, including an inauguration ceremony and a factory tour, was conducted in compliance with the strict COVID-19 measures that Barry Callebaut applies to maintain a high level of safety for its people.

The state-of-the-art factory, which represents a total investment of EUR  55 million, has an initial annual production capacity of over 50,000 tonnes of chocolate. It allows Barry Callebaut  to supply customers with a wide range of chocolate, compound and filling products. The factory will serve as a regional hub from which Barry Callebaut can address the rapidly growing chocolate markets of Southeastern Europe and beyond.

Since the groundbreaking ceremony early March 2020, construction work progressed rapidly and was completed in March 2021.

 Novi Sad is the perfect location for us. I am pleased with the successful start and am confident that from Novi Sad we can address the rapidly growing chocolate markets of Southeastern Europe and become the solution provider of choice for customers in the region. 

Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group

 It is important for us now to additionally invest in technical universities in Novi Sad, Vojvodina and in the north of Serbia, and to do everything possible to make people understand that when they finish their schools, that they can get a really good job. We are thankful to Barry Callebaut for hiring such a highly skilled workforce. 

Aleksandar Vučić, the President of Serbia

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Your Barry Callebaut Group Contacts

Korneel Warlop

Corporate Communications Director EMEA

+32 47592 2240

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Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

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Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

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Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

The Board of Directors has appointed Rogier van Sligter, currently Co-President EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa), sole President EMEA, effective October 1, 2021, following Andrew Fleming's decision to pursue new career opportunities outside the Barry Callebaut Group. 

Rogier van Sligter (born 1973, Dutch national) joined Barry Callebaut in 2004 as Account Manager. Prior to starting his journey in Barry Callebaut, he successfully onboarded his career in different marketing roles for various companies. In 2008, Rogier van Sligter became Sales Director Benelux & Nordics. From 2012 to 2016, he served as Vice President Europe North before being promoted to Vice President EEMEA (Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa). In this role, he led the continued expansion of the Group in EEMEA. In 2020 Rogier van Sligter was appointed Co-President EMEA and member of the Executive Committee. 

Rogier van Sligter holds a Bachelor degree in International Management from Haarlem Business School, the Netherlands.

 I want to thank Andrew for his invaluable contribution to Barry Callebaut's growth over many years. In his 17 years with Barry Callebaut, Andrew played a vital role in growing our business, landing critical innovations, and securing our largest customers. Andrew championed the further expansion of our EMEA business into emerging markets and into more value-adding categories in support of smart growth, and with great success. 

 I congratulate Rogier on his appointment as President EMEA, in which role he will continue to apply his considerable experience and deep business insights to further implement the plan for the continued growth of our largest Region. 

Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group

Media Assets

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  Rogier van Sligter

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  Andrew Fleming

About Barry Callebaut Group:

With annual sales of about CHF 6.9 billion (EUR 6.4 billion / USD 7.1 billion) in fiscal year 2019/20, the Zurich- based Barry Callebaut Group is the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products - from sourcing and processing cocoa beans to producing the finest chocolates, including chocolate fillings, decorations and compounds. The Group runs more than 60 production facilities worldwide and employs a diverse and dedicated global workforce of more than 12,000 people.

The Barry Callebaut Group serves the entire food industry, from industrial food manufacturers to artisanal and professional users of chocolate, such as chocolatiers, pastry chefs, bakers, hotels, restaurants or caterers. The global brands catering to the specific needs of these Gourmet customers are Callebaut^® and Cacao Barry^®, Carma^® and the decorations specialist Mona Lisa^®.

The Barry Callebaut Group is committed to make sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025 to help ensure future supplies of cocoa and improve farmer livelihoods. It supports the Cocoa Horizons Foundation in its goal to shape a sustainable cocoa and chocolate future.

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Your Barry Callebaut Group Contacts

Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

Send e-mail

Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

Send e-mail

Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

We collaborate with customers and experts from across the globe to share knowledge and insights to elicit positive change in the years to come. As of October 26, Treat Tomorrow offers all new episodes and a whole new mini-series that is dedicated to food with health benefits, a monumental breakthrough in cacaofruit history. From now, registration for Treat Tomorrow Live on October 26, 2021 is open!

On October 26, Treat Tomorrow Live, a 'Glocal Customer Gathering' will take place with all new mini-series and all new episodes. The gathering is part of our journey to shape chocolate indulgence for the decade to come in collaboration with customers and experts.  

During Treat Tomorrow Live three mini-series take the stage with topics plant-craft in mini-series The Garden Party, next-gen indulgence in Gen Zest for Life, and food with health benefits in a whole new mini-series Nurturing my Nature. 

A monumental cacaofruit breakthrough will be unraveled and joined by renowned medical experts and pioneering brands. A professor explains how our senses impact our brains and taste perception. And experts talk about 3D printing chocolate treats and describe how retailers transform food habits and how dairy free compounds play a role.

All mini-series will be live hosted by an anchor to stimulate the interactivity and discussions.
The 2-hour program starts with an interview with our CEO, Peter Boone.
 

 With Treat Tomorrow, we aim to shift the dialogue with customers, brands and artisans. We are very pleased to see that over the past few months already 30.000 visitors joined the on demand Treat Tomorrow platform. We're looking forward to an engaging Treat Tomorrow Live with thousands of customers. 

Pablo Perversi, Chief Innovation, Sustainability & Quality Officer and Global Head of Gourmet of the Barry Callebaut Group

With the initiative, we, as the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, intend to foster new and emerging consumer desires addressing climate, social inequality, and personal health concerns.

To carve out the plan for chocolate indulgence, you can register for Treat Tomorrow Live as of today.

Currently the Treat Tomorrow platform has 5 mini-series addressing 5 pressing consumer questions. The library will continue to grow. Each mini-series reflects on the subject from multiple perspectives: macro trends, food & health science, brand case studies, and next-generation consumer applications. Topics include: health, next generation indulgence, plant-based, sustainability and the climate.

Bas Smit

Working as Global Vice President Marketing of Barry Callebaut. Native Dutch, married and father of four kids, he loves nature and sports. He believes that to build businesses, define destinations and drive change, the answers are in the world around us.

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Your Barry Callebaut Group Contacts

Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

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Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

Send e-mail

Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

The Board of Directors has appointed Masha Vis-Mertens as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and as member of the Executive  Committee, effective October 1, 2021. Masha Vis-Mertens, currently Vice President Operations &  Supply Chain EMEA, is succeeding Isabelle Esser, who has decided to pursue her career outside the Barry Callebaut Group. 

Masha Vis-Mertens (born 1971, Dutch national) joined Barry Callebaut in 2012 as Global Corporate  Account Manager Operations & Supply Chain, assuming the role of Global Corporate Account  Director in 2014, successfully growing Barry Callebaut's global partnerships. In 2017 Masha Vis Mertens was appointed Vice President Human Resources EMEA. In this role she focused on talent development and retention by creating a more collaborative culture and a well structured onboarding of new employees. Since 2019 Masha Vis-Mertens has been Vice President Operations  & Supply Chain EMEA. Before joining Barry Callebaut she worked at Cargill in a variety of supply chain roles. Masha Vis-Mertens holds a Bachelor degree in French and Russian and a Master degree in European Studies from the University of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, as well as an  Executive Master degree from the University of Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium. 

Effective October 1, 2021, the Board of Directors has appointed Massimo Selmo as Chief  Procurement Officer and as member of the Executive Committee. Massimo Selmo, currently Head of Global Sourcing, will be the Group's first ever Chief Procurement Officer in the Executive  Committee. 

Massimo Selmo (born 1965, Italian and Swiss national) has been with Barry Callebaut for 25 years, of which close to 23 years as Head of Global Sourcing. In this role, Massimo Selmo contributed strongly to the Group's strategic growth pillar of cost leadership. Furthermore, in support of  Forever Chocolate, Barry Callebaut's plan to make sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025, he championed sustainable sourcing, resulting in 61% of the Group's non-cocoa ingredients being sustainably sourced in fiscal year 2019/20. Massimo Selmo joined Barry Callebaut in 1996, having previously worked at KPMG as Senior Auditor. Massimo Selmo holds a Bachelor degree in Business  Administration from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. 

 I want to thank Isabelle for her invaluable contributions to Barry Callebaut's growth over the past years. Isabelle transformed the HR function into a business partnering powerhouse, successfully building our talent development program and introducing our #OneBC commitment to build a more diverse and inclusive workplace, all of which will continue to serve the Group in the years to come. 

 I warmly welcome Masha and Massimo to the Executive Committee of Barry Callebaut. Their longstanding and highly successful track record at Barry Callebaut, in combination with their diverse experience, will ensure a smooth transition, as well as continuity in the implementation of our growth strategy combined with fresh insights into its execution. 

Peter Boone, CEO of the Barry Callebaut Group

Media Assets

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  Masha Vis-Mertens

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  Massimo Selmo

About Barry Callebaut Group:

With annual sales of about CHF 6.9 billion (EUR 6.4 billion / USD 7.1 billion) in fiscal year 2019/20, the Zurich- based Barry Callebaut Group is the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products - from sourcing and processing cocoa beans to producing the finest chocolates, including chocolate fillings, decorations and compounds. The Group runs more than 60 production facilities worldwide and employs a diverse and dedicated global workforce of more than 12,000 people.

The Barry Callebaut Group serves the entire food industry, from industrial food manufacturers to artisanal and professional users of chocolate, such as chocolatiers, pastry chefs, bakers, hotels, restaurants or caterers. The global brands catering to the specific needs of these Gourmet customers are Callebaut^® and Cacao Barry^®, Carma^® and the decorations specialist Mona Lisa^®.

The Barry Callebaut Group is committed to make sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025 to help ensure future supplies of cocoa and improve farmer livelihoods. It supports the Cocoa Horizons Foundation in its goal to shape a sustainable cocoa and chocolate future.

Get in Touch

Your Barry Callebaut Group Contacts

Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

Send e-mail

Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

Send e-mail

Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00

Today, The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY), an industry-leading snacks company known for bringing goodness to the world through its iconic brands, and Barry Callebaut, the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, announced the extension of their strategic supply partnership originally signed in 2007. Under the extension agreement, Barry Callebaut will continue to supply Hershey's North American business with liquid chocolate and finished products. The renewed agreement will enable both companies to continue to drive strategic, long-term growth in North America.

 We are pleased to extend our strategic relationship with Barry Callebaut, who has been a key partner to our business for many years, and we look forward to their support of our continued sustainable growth in high-quality chocolate products. 

Tricia Brannigan, VP of Procurement for The Hershey Company

 The extension of the long-term supply partnership with Hershey underscores how Barry Callebaut's reliability and premium chocolate expertise make it the partner of choice for leading industry players. 

Steve Woolley, President & CEO Americas of Barry Callebaut

Barry Callebaut supplies products to Hershey across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

About Barry Callebaut Group:

With annual sales of about CHF 6.9 billion (EUR 6.4 billion / USD 7.1 billion) in fiscal year 2019/20, the Zurich- based Barry Callebaut Group is the world's leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products - from sourcing and processing cocoa beans to producing the finest chocolates, including chocolate fillings, decorations and compounds. The Group runs more than 60 production facilities worldwide and employs a diverse and dedicated global workforce of more than 12,000 people.

The Barry Callebaut Group serves the entire food industry, from industrial food manufacturers to artisanal and professional users of chocolate, such as chocolatiers, pastry chefs, bakers, hotels, restaurants or caterers. The global brands catering to the specific needs of these Gourmet customers are Callebaut^® and Cacao Barry^®, Carma^® and the decorations specialist Mona Lisa^®.

The Barry Callebaut Group is committed to make sustainable chocolate the norm by 2025 to help ensure future supplies of cocoa and improve farmer livelihoods. It supports the Cocoa Horizons Foundation in its goal to shape a sustainable cocoa and chocolate future.

Get in Touch

Your Barry Callebaut Group Contacts

Frank Keidel

Head of Media Relations

+41 76 399 69 06

Send e-mail

Claudia Pedretti

Head of Investor Relations

+41 43 204 04 23

Send e-mail

Barry Callebaut head office

Barry Callebaut AG (Head Office)
Hardturmstrasse 181
8005 Zurich
Switzerland

+41 43 204 04 04

+41 43 204 04 00