Grupo Marilan acquires panettone maker Siena Alimentos

BRAZIL – Brazilian biscuit manufacturer Grupo Marilan has acquired the renowned Brazilian panettone maker Siena Alimentos for an undisclosed amount.  

The acquisition is subject to approval from Brazil’s competition watchdog. Until such approval is granted, both companies will maintain their existing operational structures and competitive conditions.

CEO Rodrigo Garla stated that the acquisition of Siena Alimentos will enable the company to expand in the panettone sector and demonstrates the category’s great potential for growth and innovation, both in Brazil and in the international market.

Founded in 1979, Siena Alimentos is recognized for its Roma and Festtone panettone brands. The company began its operations in a 400 square meter family shed and expanded its headquarters in 1999 to São José dos Pinhais, which now covers 15,000 square meters.

The facility has a production capacity of over ten million panettones annually, supported by investments in technology and quality standards.

Headquartered in Marília, São Paulo, Marilan produces more than 90 varieties of biscuits—including sweet, savory, coated, and filled products—under well-known brands such as Marilan, Pit Stop, and TopCau Chocolates.

Its products are sold throughout Brazil and exported to over 60 countries. The company employs more than 2,300 people and operates a facility spanning 67,000 square meters.

Over the past five years, Marilan has expanded its operations by building a manufacturing facility in Igarassu, Pernambuco, and by acquiring the Casa Suíça and Top Cau bakery brands.

According to a report released by TechSci Research, the Brazilian biscuit market was valued at US$3.02B in 2024 and is projected to reach US$4.41B by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.57% during the forecast period.

The demand for biscuits has increased due to urbanization and a growing global working population, leading to a higher need for ready-to-eat food products.

In the first half of 2024, Brazil exported 31,000 tons of biscuits worth US$71.2M to 115 countries. The United States, Paraguay, and Uruguay were the leading destinations, accounting for 51% of total exports.

Brazil is the primary supplier of biscuits to Paraguay, making up nearly 60% of its imports, and ranks second in Uruguay with 50%.

Wafers were the most significant export product, totaling 12,100 tons valued at US$36.8M, marking a 4% increase in value compared to the previous year.

Traditional biscuits, including cream crackers and filled varieties, accounted for US$31.1M, with 17,400 tons exported.

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