Vevey, December 13, 2007 - Nestlé today announced a strategic partnership with Brussels-based luxury chocolate maker Pierre Marcolini. The partnership will allow Nestlé to benefit from the know-how and artistic talent of one of the world's leading luxury chocolate makers, while Pierre Marcolini will gain access to Nestlé's global experience. Pierre Marcolini will provide inspiration for future Nestlé chocolate ranges, while Nestlé will help Pierre Marcolini expand his network of boutiques across the world. Pierre Marcolini will continue to lead his company as an independent and autonomous operation, and Nestlé will join its board. The parties have agreed not to reveal the financial details of the new partnership.
The move further underlines Nestlé's commitment to the premium and luxury chocolate market. Nestlé is strong in the premium chocolate segment with brands such as Perugina, Baci, Nestlé Noir and Cailler. Nestlé is also the world's largest buyer of fine cocoa beans with local operations in key countries such as Ecuador and Venezuela, which account for over half of the world's production of fine beans.