Holon has finalised the purchase of 100% of the share capital of the British producer of boxed chocolates, Elizabeth Shaw Limited, for Colian Holding S.A., a leader in the Polish confectionery sector and owner of strong brands including Jutrzenka, Goplana and Solidarność. The seller was the Norwegian investment fund Imagine Capital AS. 

The acquisition of this British company by Colian is part of the group’s long-term development strategy outside Poland. Colian Group has become one of the largest producers of confectionery on the Polish market, thanks to domestic acquisitions and the expansion of its brand portfolio. It has also achieved a strong position in the Polish spices and soft drinks markets. Elizabeth Shaw Limited is a producer of premium segment boxed chocolates, sold under the well–established British brands Elizabeth Shaw and Famous Names. Colian Holding SA, through acquiring Elizabeth Shaw Limited, has also gained full control over its subsidiary Famous Names Limited.

Holon played the role of transaction advisor to Colian Holding S.A. throughout the acquisition process, beginning with reviewing the British market and identifying potential candidates, through the selection of Elizabeth Shaw Ltd., negotiations with the Company’s owner and completion of the transaction in the UK.

“The completion of this transaction is in line with the development strategy of the Colian Group, whose main aims include expansion in foreign markets including through acquisition, that was communicated by Colian Holdings’ management last year. Through purchasing Elizabeth Shaw Limited, Colian confirms its interest in companies that possess strong brands, that can be further developed through the existing divisions operated by the Group", wrote Colian Holding in its press release.