Inside FMCG: 10/03/21

Confectionary house Mondelēz International has added one of Australia’s leading food manufacturers to its stable of brands, with the acquisition of Gourmet Food Holdings bringing cracker brands OB Finest, Onlina’s Bakehouse and Crispbic under its banner.

The acquisition, announced on Wednesday, allows Mondelēz access to a whole new snacking occasion anchored in health and wellness.

“Gourmet Food as become a category leader locally, through an innovative, agile and consumer centric approach,” said President of Mondelēz Australia, New Zealand and Japan Darren O’Brien.

“Complemented by our geographic scale and coverage, it’s our ambition to build their portfolio of brands for more consumers in Australia and around the world.”

The acquisition also gives Mondelēz access to Gourmet Food’s pre-packaged seafood business, including the Ocean Blue brand.

The business will continue to be operated separately, with current chief operating officer Oliver Flint taking up the role of managing director, and CEO Todd Wilson to serve in an advisory role moving forward.

Wilson helped found the business five years ago, and said Gourmet Food is excited to join the Mondelēz family.

“They’re on a mission to lead the future of snacking and we can’t wait to join them,” Wilson said.