Chocolate Lake Co. explores strategic stake sale  

JORDAN – Amman-based Chocolate Lake Co., a leading chocolate and ingredients manufacturer, is in discussions with potential investors over a strategic stake sale that could value the company at up to US$800 million, according to Bloomberg.  

The company has appointed Rothschild & Co. to advise on the process, which has drawn interest from private equity firms and strategic buyers. Talks are ongoing, and no final decision has been made. 

Founded in 2016, Chocolate Lake has grown into one of the Middle East’s prominent chocolate manufacturers. The company produces more than 600 products, including chocolates, fillings, spreads, sauces, bites, and bars. Its branded items are supplied to restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and hotels in over 40 countries. 

A sale of this scale would rank among Jordan’s largest mergers and acquisitions in recent years, highlighting significant investor interest in the country’s consumer goods sector.  

The potential deal comes as the global chocolate industry faces challenges, with cocoa prices hitting record highs last December and staying elevated, exerting pressure on demand amid food inflation. 

According to StrategyHelix Group, Jordan’s confectionery market is expected to increase by approximately US$50.1 million with a compound annual growth rate of around 3.9%.  

Rising incomes, greater interest in premium and imported products, and the expansion of modern retail formats are driving growth. Younger consumers are also showing a preference for innovative and healthier alternatives. 

If completed, the Chocolate Lake deal would underscore the resilience of Jordan’s consumer sector despite broader global headwinds in food markets. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.