Barry Callebaut has detailed a multi-year investment plan of €250 million for its chocolate factory in Wieze, Belgium, alongside a further €125 million earmarked for its Halle facility.
The Wieze site, which the company describes as the largest chocolate factory in the world, will be the primary focus of the investment programme. According to Barry Callebaut, the funding is intended to modernise infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and support long-term production capacity. Part of the investment forms part of the group’s previously announced BC Next Level programme, with the remainder allocated through regular capital expenditure.
The company said the Wieze masterplan includes upgrades to production lines, with a focus on food safety, quality and workplace safety. Planned developments also include site infrastructure changes, such as the construction of a ring road to introduce one-way traffic flows, aimed at improving on-site safety and reducing environmental impact.
In parallel, Barry Callebaut confirmed that the Halle factory will receive €125 million under a separate masterplan, reinforcing the group’s manufacturing footprint in Belgium.
Wim Debedts, managing director for Benelux and the Nordics, said the investments reflect the long-term role of the Wieze and Halle sites within the group’s production network.
Filip Hermans, plant manager at Wieze, said the programme is expected to improve operational capabilities while creating a safer and more modern working environment for employees.
Barry Callebaut has operated in Wieze since 1911, when the Callebaut brand was founded. The company supplies chocolate and cocoa products to customers globally.
Image credit: Pierre-Yves Jortay Photography
