Takeover of Dutch chocolate brand Droste fails, employees laid off.
The planned takeover of the 161-year-old Dutch chocolate company Droste has fallen through. As a result, the company has filed for the dismissal of all 27 employees.
Last year, the Belgian company Pauwels Engineering expressed interest in acquiring Droste, seemingly rescuing the struggling brand. However, the deal collapsed earlier this year, leaving the future of the company uncertain. The reason for the failed acquisition remains unclear, according to FNV union representative Eric Brouwer.
Droste has faced severe financial difficulties in recent years. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted exports, while the energy crisis and rising cocoa prices further strained the company. Droste, a subsidiary of the German firm Hosta, now faces an uncertain fate.
It remains unclear what will happen to the iconic Droste brand, as the company’s lawyer has not provided any comments.
