NEWS

1 July 2005

As part of an international programme of expansion and ongoing quality improvements vis-à-vis our customers, Belcolade had invested 7 million euros in its production site in Erembodegem. The first phase of the investment programme involved raising production capacity and the automation of the packaging department. Furthermore, the last genuine Belgian chocolate manufacturer was institigated the most fundamental modernisation programme in its entire history, with a radically new packaging concept and numerous product innovations.

Advanced packaging department optimises production process

With a view to the successful expansion of its business operations, Belcolade had resolved to commit itself to investment in highly modernised production plant. To meet the rising demand, Belcolade instigated a phased investment plan in 1995, with 17 million euros being spent on the modernisation of its production unit in Erembodegem and on raising production and storage capacity. The rewards of this programme were being reaped, since the specialist chocolate market was witnessing growth rates which were consistently in double figures (more than 10% per year). 

To achieve its international plans for growth, Belcolade is now investing 7 million euros is expanding its packaging department

"In terms of technology, the new packaging machinery is state-of-the-art and it meaned we could up volume by 40%. The automation of the packaging line enabled us to meet the needs of the market far more quickly and efficiently, and at the same time made improvements to the quality of the packaging". These were the words of Rik Balcaen, Managing Director of Belcolade. "What's more, the new packaging line complies with the most stringent hygiene regulations and in so doing, we can guarantee the ideal packaging conditions."

Craftsmanship and production innovation play a key role in future growth 

Production innovation plays an important role in the growth strategy of the Belgian chocolate specialist. In line with this philosophy, Belcolade's parent company Puratos has identified taste and well-being as the key elements in the development of new products.  
As far as taste is concerned, a number of exclusive chocolates have been developed. Chocolate is actually a healthy product (just think of all those anti-oxidants in chocolate), and in 2005, Belcolade had even introduced a range of chocolate onto the market without any added sugar. Concurrent with the launch of these products, Belcolade also took the opportunity to optimise the flavour of some of its chocolates by using even better ingredients. 

Rik added, "All our chocolates are an ideal combination of innovation, traditional production methods and convenience so that we can meet the day-to-day demands of chocolate confectioners, patisseries and bakers. Belcolade produces authentic Belgian chocolate according to traditional methods, but also adopts a forward-thinking approach where product innovations play a central role. Around 5 to 10% of our product range is updated every year".

Belcolade invested in modern packaging concept and new house-style 

In 2005, Belcolade set in motion a large-scale modernisation programme which could be identified on three separate levels. With its revamped, modern and quality packaging, Belcolade had been setting the pace in its industry in terms of packaging, where maximum attention was focussed on creating convenience for the customer. Moreover, the new packaging is able to extend use-by dates so that freshness could be guaranteed across the globe. 

Belcolade has also been investing in a new house-style. The new house-style aims to have a genuine "chocolate look" which reflects Belgian authenticity and reliability. The innovative nature of the Belgian chocolate manufacturer is also emphasized in the new house-style.

Belcolade: The Real Belgian Chocolate for the professional

As the largest subsidiary of the chocolate division of the Belgian Puratos Group, Belcolade plays a strategic role. The chocolate producer, founded in 1988, is the second largest manufacturer of Belgian chocolate (100% cocoa butter!) for the professional market. Belcolade produces white, milk and plain chocolate in liquid form, but also in drops, bars, granules, blocks, etc. Ready-made fillings (on the basis of chocolate and nuts), intended for pralines, biscuits and other foodstuffs also form an integral part of Belcolade's range. 

Belcolade exports its chocolate products to more than 80 countries around the globe, with European Union countries, North America and Japan being the chief markets. Its customers include traditional chocolate confectioners, patisseries and bakers, as well as their industrial counterparts. Thanks to its segmented, highly individual approach, Belcolade is able to satisfy contemporary demand for chocolate. The taste, colour and technical requirements - or combination of ingredients - may differ for all its diverse range of uses (e.g. pralines, Easter eggs, cake, etc.) 
In March 2003 Belcolade received the BRC certificate, thus satisfying the most stringent standards imposed by the European Food Distribution Sector.