UK confectionery and beverage giant Cadbury Schweppes has confirmed that it is in discussions with the Tahincioglu family in Turkey regarding a possible equity interest in confectionery manufacturer Kent and its distribution arm, Birlik.


Cadbury noted however that these discussions may or may not lead to an eventual agreement.


Based outside Istanbul, Kent is Turkey’s leading sugar confectionery manufacturer with estimated sales of US$110m and estimated volume of 27.1 million tonnes in 2001. Well-known brands produced by the company include Olips, Jellibon, Elegan, Missbon, Tofita, Topi Top and Bonibon. Kent also has the second position in the local gum market with brands such as Relax, Olite and Nazar.