Blommer Chocolate to be acquired by Fuji Oil

Blommer Chocolate Co., North America’s largest ingredient chocolate manufacturer, recently entered into an agreement to be acquired by Japan’s Fuji Oil Holdings Inc., a manufacturer of oil and fat ingredients used in the food industry.

Blommer Chocolate has four North American manufacturing facilities, including one in East Greenville, Pa. Founded in 1939, the family-owned and operated company employs more than 900 employees worldwide.

Fuji Oil manufactures soy ingredients and plant-based hard butters used for chocolate, cream, margarine, and cheese-flavor ingredients. The company has 11 chocolate factories in eight countries.

“Our companies share common values and a deep commitment to product quality, innovation and customer service,” CEO Peter Blommer said. “With our combined expertise in chocolate and fats and oils, both rooted in product and process innovation, we have the opportunity to create a broad global footprint from which to serve our customers and drive growth.”

The company is excited about this new chapter in its history, Blommer said.

Combining know-how and operations will provide significant opportunities and choices for customers, Hiroshi Shimizu, president and CEO of Fuji Oil Holdings said.

Terms of the transaction were not disclosed, but BofA Merrill Lynch acted as financial adviser. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP were Blommer’s legal counsel. The deal is expected to close in 30 to 60 days.