Gü Chocolate Puds has confirmed the sale of a majority stake to egg packer Noble Foods, ending months of speculation about the dessert maker’s future.

Noble confirmed in November that it was in talks with Gü – the latest in a series of moves by the egg supplier to develop its desserts portfolio, following its acquisition of the Serious Food Co in August 2008.

“Noble Foods is an excellent strategic partner,” said Gü founder and managing director James Averdieck, who retains a stake in the business and will continue to oversee its day-to-day running.

“Like us they are a privately owned, people-oriented, entrepreneurial business that takes a long-term view – only they’re a lot bigger.”

He added: “We share a very strong customer focus and by drawing on our collective strengths aspire, over time, to be the leaders in premium desserts in both UK and France.”

Noble chief executive Peter Thornton added: “We admire Gü‘s premium quality, innovation and unique approach to business and look forward to helping it grow even more.”

Yoplait, Daniels Foods and Nestlé had previously been touted as potential buyers.

Read more
Noble Foods confirms it’s in talks to purchase Gü Chocolate Puds (21 November 2009)
Dairy businesses still in running to buy Gü (5 September 2009)