Ciro teams up with Chilla in drinks deal

July 2010

Ciro Beverages Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of AVI Limited, has formed a partnership with the Chilla Beverage Co to incorporate the Chilla offering of imported frappés, fruit smoothies, hot chocolate and chai spiced lattés into Ciro's expanding out-of-home beverage range.

Rob Katzen, AVI's business development director, said of the deal: "The two companies share a similar culture and commercial outlook. Ciro's standing in the market and its established network and distribution chain, coupled with the quality and reputation of the Chilla brand are an ideal fit."

Focusing on the smoothie market, the Chilla brand entered the South African market eight years ago and has a distribution base of over 1 000 outlets in the retail and foodservice industry. New flavors and products include Chilla Choco Stick, a block of pure Belgian chocolate on a stick that is melted into hot milk to create a hot chocolate drink.

Chilla Beverage CEO Neil Levitt, says: "The alliance between two leading brands will make possible the further penetration of a complete product offering into the market and allow both parties to strengthen their position in the trade. It will ensure that the main objective of supplying high-quality and innovative products is maintained."

Ciro's core coffee offering is strengthened by branded point-of-sale material, table-talkers and a training facility, as well as sophisticated machinery solutions and technical support to ensure that customers receive training and support to produce and serve quality beverages.

Ciro supplies Lavazza, Douwe Edberts Cafitesse, Ciro and Five Roses products into the hospitality trade, as well as a small range of complementary products such as biscuits. Its hospitality clients include Southern Sun, Protea Hotels, Sun International, Famous Brands and Spur.

With some of their products are Neil Levitt, CEO of Chilla Beverage, and Rob Katzen, the business development manager at AVI.