Sweets firm snapped up by Swedes

Goody Good Stuff, the Lancaster-based sweets firm that recently cracked its 27th export market, has been bought by Cloetta.

The Cloetta group is listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange and is behind a number of brands that retail throughout Europe, including Chewits in the UK.

The Red Rose Awards-nominated Goody Good Stuff was established in 2010 and produces confectionery suitable for the majority of dietary requirements, containing no gelatine, gluten, nut, soy, egg,

The company was established by New Yorker Melissa Burton, who moved to the UK to study at Lancaster University. It currently exports to 15 European countries and has more than 15,000 stockists around the globe.

Cloetta CEO Bengt Baron said: “Acquisitions are a part of our growth strategy and Goody Good Stuff gives us a possibility to strengthen our product offer within an interesting segment. The products from Goody Good Stuff can be consumed by everyone as it is a natural candy free from allergens. This is a segment where we see increased consumer demand and where Cloetta can play an important role." The value of the deal has not been disclosed.