European Rival Perfetti Van Melle to Buy Dentyne, other Gum Business from Mondelēz International for $1.35B

European rival Perfetti Van Melle Group is acquiring Mondelēz International’s gum business for approximately $1.35 billion. The Chicago-based company’s manufacturing facilities in Rockford, Ill. and Skarbimierz, Poland are also part of the deal.

The transaction is expected to close at the end of 2023.

The acquisition will include its Trident, Dentyne, Chiclets and Bubbalicious gum brands in the United States, Canada and Europe, as well as the European candy brands Cachou Lajauni and La Vosgienne.

European-based gum and confectionary company Perfetti is known for popular candy items like Air Heads and Mentos. In 2021, the company reported sales of approximately $2.65 billion.

“Perfetti Van Melle will be an excellent home for the management team and employees of Mondelēz’s gum business in North America and Europe,” said Egidio Perfetti, Chairman of C+F Confectionery and Foods and Perfetti Van Melle Group.

Mondelēz aims to generate 90% of revenue in chocolate and biscuits, it’s “sweet spot”, including baked snacks, which are identified as significant growth opportunities, up from 59% in 2012 and 80% today.

Mondelēz announced plans in May to divest its developed market gum and global Halls businesses following a strategic review of its portfolio.