Grupo Nutresa

Formation of the group In 1896, Fábrica de Galletas y Confites—a company making biscuits (cookies and crackers) and confectionery—was set up in Medellin, Colombia. In 1925, the company changed its name to Fábrica de Galletas Noel S.A. and again in 1999, to Compañía de Galletas Noel S.A. In 1920, a chocolate-processing company under the name of Compañía Nacional de Chocolates Cruz Roja was founded and later changed its name to Compañía Nacional de Chocolates, S.A. In 1933, this chocolate company bought an interest in the biscuit company paving the way for the formation of the conglomerate. From 1933 to 1958, the group continued to consolidate its distribution network resulting in strengthened national presence and corporate image. In 2008, international acquisitions were concentrated in the meat market with the purchase of Ernesto Berard S.A. in Panama, joining the already acquired Blue Ribbon Products, which would merge in 2011, and give rise to Alicapsa-Alimentos Cárnicos Panamá. In October 2010, the company acquired US–based cookie manufacturer Fehr Foods, which was later renamed AbiMar Foods. In 2020, it announced its foray into South Africa with its products and the construction of its 48th production plant, in the city of Santa Marta, Colombia. Image change On 31 March 2011, the company changed its name to Grupo Nutresa in a move made to emphasize the diversity of its products that now includes pasta and cold cuts. ==Brands==