Dulcioliva joins Sperlari group

Dulcioliva, a historic Piedmontese company with almost 100 years of experience in the chocolate specialities sector, has become part of the confectionery group Sperlari following a majority acquisition.

Founded in 1924, Dulcioliva has revenues of more than €8 million, of which more than 30% is generated in 22 foreign countries, primarily the United States. It has a modern 3,000 square metre factory located in Borgo San Dalmazzo in the province of Cuneo equipped with technologically advanced plants where it produces the famous Cuneesi chocolates, as well as other specialities such as truffles, gianduiotti, pralines, spreadable creams, bars and much more.

The agreement includes a partnership with the founders’ grandsons, Luigi and Giuseppe Oliva (the latter will continue to lead the company as CEO). The two companies share very similar values. While Sperlari has abandoned the use of animal gelatine in all its Italian-made products, Dulcioliva has long been avoiding artificial additives, preservatives, hydrogenated vegetable fats and animal fats other than cocoa butter.

“We decided to work with Dulcioliva because it is a growing, profitable, innovation-focused company that is entering many important segments,” commented Piergiorgio Burei, CEO of Sperlari, which since 2017 has been owned by German group Katjes International. “This alliance will offer both parties new development opportunities both in Italy and in a number of foreign markets, from Europe to North America and Asia.”

Together with the acquisition, Sperlari also announced an extra €3 million investment in its Cremona plant, aimed mainly at modernising the nougat and chocolate lines.

Image credits: Dulcioliva