Dublin-based Valeo Foods is acquiring Schluckwerder Group, maker of Lübeck marzipan, from German investment firm Novum Capital.

Though the total of participating companies (501) is down from the 566 Koelnmesse recorded this time last year, organizers feel the trade fair, set for Jan. 31-Feb. 3, is on a good course in light of the global coronavirus pandemic.

Show organizers are postponing interpack from May 2020 to Feb. 25-March 3, 2021.

The confectionery and baked goods segments are an excellent example of the important impact packaging can have on consumer decisions at the point of sale.

The show is still proceeding as planned, according to event organizers, who also said “Messe Düsseldorf is closely monitoring current developments and is in direct contact with the health authorities.”

Schokinag has installed a new chip production line with a capacity of 3 tonnes per hour. The Mannheim, Germany-based company has also installed a white chocolate production line that’s set to begin regular operation this month.

Katjes International, the investment division of Katjes Group, has sold its minority stake in Halloren Schokoladenfabrik AG to Charlie Investors.

All Ritter Sport products leaving Alfred Ritter GmbH & Co. KG’s Waldenbuch, Germany, production site use chocolate that has been cultivated and processed under sustainable conditions, the company revealed Jan. 26.