Chocolate Works acquires Moonstruck Chocolate Co.

Chocolate Works to continue operating Moonstruck Chocolate Co. out of the brand's East Portland facility.

Chocolate Works has acquired Oregon-based Moonstruck Chocolate LLC for an undisclosed amount.

Oregon Live reports that Moonstruck plans to shut down its three remaining shops on July 8 as part of the acquisition process. And the Moonstruck website currently features a message for shoppers that reads, "Our online store will be offlines as we move facilites. We plan to be back online at the end of the summer."

However, Chocolate Works will continue operating Moonstruck Chocolate Co. out of the brand's East Portland facility.

New York-based Chocolate Works is known for its branded and private label specialty chocolates and confections. The company has become one of the industry's largest drop ship manufacturers to many household name brands with broad, rapidly expanding capabilities supporting national retailers.

Chocolate Works Founder Joe Whatley said the acquisition will give the company a West Coast presence, allowing it to better serve its customers.

Moonstruck Chocolate is a family-owned brand is known for producing premium chocolates. The company has been featured in O magazine as one of "Oprah's favorite things." With lifetime sales of more than $50 million, Moonstruck has built a dedicated customer base that Chocolate Works hopes to build upon into the future.

"Leading Moonstruck has been the highlight of my professional career," said Russell Sneddon, CEO and owner of the company. "I am so grateful to our amazing staff and loyal customers who have supported us all these years. We look forward to watching the brand's growth and transformation under Chocolate Works as the brand expands from a regional favorite to the national stage."

Chocolate Works was advised by Keith Yonkers of 41 North LLC who specializes in food, beverage and consumer product investment banking. The transaction was closed in June 2022. Chocolate Works will be ready to service all current customers without interruption as they integrate. For any inquiries, please contact Chocolate Works at 516-868-8070 or info@chocolateworks.com.

Crystal Lindell, Former editor-in-chief of Candy Industry Magazine. While here she has worked on Candy Industry Magazine, Food Engineering Magazine and Food Safety Strategies. She holds a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois – Springfield and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Western Illinois University. And her favorite breakfast is a cup of espresso and Twix bar.