Deliciously Ella has become a growth engine for new owner Hero Group, following its acquisition in September 2024.
A “double-digit” bump in sales at plant-based brand Deliciously Ella contributed to overall organic growth of 2.2% for the Swiss food group. Reported revenues declined slightly to CHF1.2bn (£1.1bn), as exchange rates favoured the Swiss franc.
Deliciously Ella’s late 2024 launch of its range of Breakfast Bakes gave the brand a “core pillar” with which to drive sales, and further NPD in 2025, including protein bars and granola, saw it tap into strong consumer demand for protein and fibre-rich products.
Hero has pursued better-for-you snacking as a pillar of future growth, with multiple acquisitions designed to complement its core healthier snack brand Corny, which it launched in 1984.
The company’s Better Snacking division grew sales by 7% in the year to 31 December 2025, with Corny and Deliciously Ella giving “particularly strong” contributions to growth.
“2025 was a pivotal year for the Hero Group,” said CEO Christian Schierbaum.
“We defined our long-term strategy, called Hero 2035, with the vision to become a leader in Better Snacking. With our strong brands, leading market positions and a very successful track record, Hero has all ingredients to win in the growing and attractive Better Snacking market. Our ambition is to expand our position via multiple snacking platforms.”
Thanks to a 1.1% increase in gross margin, Hero Group’s EBIT jumped CHF 6.3m to CHF71.3m in 2025, with net income rising to CHF47m. The company also reduced its net debt despite making a further acquisition of Brazilian snack company Super Saude Nutricional.
“The 2025 results lay a strong foundation for further growth. We are thankful for the continued high engagement of our people who work to provide the best nutritional products for our customers and consumers,” said Schierbaum.
“In line with our people commitment, we are pleased to note that women represent half of our senior leadership team, including the executive board.”
The group also reported a 5% reduction in CO2 emissions across all three scopes in 2025.
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