Guan Chong Inaugurates Industrial Chocolate Plant in the UK with a Capacity of 16,000 Tonnes

04 Dec, 2023

Guan Chong Inaugurates Industrial Chocolate Plant in the UK with a Capacity of 16,000 Tonnes

Guan Chong Bhd (GCB) has officially inaugurated its cutting-edge industrial chocolate factory in the United Kingdom (UK), marking its second venture in Europe. With an eye on the burgeoning £2.2 billion chocolate market in the UK, GCB has invested approximately £34 million in establishing this high-capacity industrial chocolate facility, boasting an annual output of 16,000 tonnes.

The world's fourth-largest cocoa grinder and industrial chocolate player underscored the facility's commitment to meeting the UK's surging chocolate demand. Equipped with state-of-the-art production machinery, the facility is tailored for the production of dark and milk chocolates, adhering to rigorous safety and quality standards.

Brandon Tay Hoe Lian, the Managing Director and CEO, highlighted the strategic move, considering the UK's standing as one of Europe's leading chocolate consumers, averaging 8.1 kg per capita. "By positioning ourselves in the UK, we hope to be a formidable chocolate manufacturer, thereby capitalizing on the strong demand for chocolate," stated Tay.

The facility, located in Suffolk, spans over 17 acres of land and features 300,000 sq ft of built-up area. Positioned near the port of Felixstowe, it strategically facilitates just-in-time local deliveries of liquid and solid chocolate products, along with professional services like technical support, to clients across Europe.

In addition to its current capabilities, the industrial chocolate facility holds expansion potential. Future plans include value-added capabilities such as cocoa liquor melting, cocoa butter melting, and cocoa cake grinding, reflecting GCB's commitment to adapting to evolving market needs.

GCB is set to refine and optimize operations while exploring possibilities for future growth in the UK chocolate market. The launch underscores GCB's dedication to innovation, quality, and meeting the dynamic demands of the chocolate industry.