Colombian chocolate manufacturer Luker Chocolate has acquired a majority stake in Slovakian Lyra Group.

This partnership will strengthen Luker’s product capabilities and increase flexibility in logistics for European clients. All of Luker Chocolate ingredient products will continue to be sourced and crafted at origin.

Lyra’s innovation in premium chocolate products expands Luker’s offer, with access to European market expertise and high-quality European ingredients. The new partnership also enhances Luker’s supply chain, making it easier for European customers to source Luker’s cocoa and product offerings.

The partnership also brings Luker the opportunity to expand its export reach, growing from its existing 40-plus country base to include high-growth markets including Asia and Eastern Europe.

"Today’s partnership brings Lyra access to Luker’s knowledge of the cocoa supply chain  —while Luker benefits from Lyra’s innovation capabilities and access to new geographies," says Camilo Restrepo, CEO, Luker Chocolate. "Ultimately, it is a combination of quality, expertise and passion—built up over a decade of cooperation—that allows us to offer better experiences to more customers across the world."

Lyra now has greater access to research on sustainable cocoa sourcing, while continuing its growth in the Slovakian and European premium chocolate sectors. It benefits from Luker’s approach that sees farmers as an integral part of the value chain as it processes cocoa at origin.

“This move will enhance our research and understanding of ethical sourcing, whilst partnering with a business that we know is true to our core values, delivering premium products that are sourced to the highest sustainable standards," said Karol Styblo, CEO and founder, Lyra Group.