Germany’s Windel Group is expanding its Belgian chocolates portfolio with the acquisition of The Chocolate Family (TCF).  

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.  

Family-owned Windel Group said in a joint statement that the tie-up will create a “one-stop shop for customers seeking Belgian premium chocolates”, while “strengthening” its standing in the international market. 

Fred Windel, CEO of the Windel Group, added: “With The Chocolate Family, we are expanding our portfolio and bringing together the best of the Belgian chocolate world under the roof of the Windel Group.” 

Founded in 1972, TCF produces a range of Belgian pralines, including the Ickx and Pralibel brands.  

It employs more than 200 people across two Belgium sites in Essen and Vichte, and operates several shops in Germany and the Netherlands. 

TCF supplies products globally to retail outlets and major retail chains, Windel Group noted. 

CEO Ellen Huurman and Sjaak Huurman, who is head of sales at TCF, said: “The Windel Group is the ideal partner for us. Their complementary product range and innovative strengths perfectly align with our vision.” 

They will remain at the helm of TCF, which will operate autonomously as part of the Windel Group. 

TCF will work with Belgian chocolate manufacturer Kim’s Chocolates, another Windel Group company. 

Included in TCF's set up are the Dragee and Rosenberg business units. 

Dragee caters to the Dutch market, supplying bakeries and speciality retailers with confections produced by Ickx and Pralibel.  

Rosenberg focuses on sourcing confectionery from around the globe, such as Italian nougat and Irish fudge.  

In addition, Rosenberg markets an extensive range of products manufactured within TCF’s own facilities, available either under the Rosenberg label or as private-label offerings. 

Combined, Windel Group and TCF will employ more than 800 people with a joint turnover of more than €250m ($289m).