GenevaLunch and sources - Nestlé, the food multinational based in Vevey, and Barry Callebaut in Zurich, the world's number one producer of chocolate mass, are developing a shared strategy. Nestlé is continuing its move away from chocolate mass production and intends to turn over its production facilities in France and Italy to Barry Callebaut. It will also sign a long-term supply contract with the Zurich-based firm to supply liquid chocolate and some consumer products to Nestlé chocolate factories in Russia.
According to Nestlé, the agreement is subject to employee consultation as well as to regulatory approval. The two parties expect a final agreement to be signed during the summer of 2007.