October 13, 2022 — The following was released by Cooke Aquaculture Inc:
Two well-known entrepreneurial New Brunswick families have teamed up to strengthen and grow Canada’s oldest candy and chocolate company. Glenn Cooke, CEO of Cooke Inc. has made a major partnership investment into Ganong Bros., Limited.
This investment will be directed into new equipment and leveraging Cooke’s global retail grocery presence to grow the iconic company. Ganong will continue to be led by its current management team including fifth generation President & CEO Bryana Ganong and her brother Nick Ganong, COO.
“This partnership, and the strategic investment from the Cooke family, is designed to ensure that Ganong remains competitive in an ever-changing global confectionary market,” says Bryana Ganong, President & CEO, Ganong Bros., Limited. “We were committed to find an investor that understood the history of our company and our commitment to our employees and New Brunswick. We are pleased to partner with the Cooke family because they understand what it takes to run a globally competitive business from a base in New Brunswick.”
“From the invention of Chicken Bones to their hand-dipped chocolates, the Ganong family has poured their hearts into producing the finest candy for customers while building a strong, vibrant community in St. Stephen,” said Glenn Cooke, CEO of Cooke Inc. “We are happy to make this positive investment to support Charlotte County and celebrate Ganong’s growth as we move into the 150th year of business together.”
Established in 1873, Ganong has the distinction of being Canada’s original and longest standing family-owned and operated chocolate company, proudly manufacturing all its products in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. Ganong has 300 dedicated employees who manufacture a variety of premium chocolates and confectionery treats. The company manufactures their own brands as well as co-manufacturing production for Canada and the US.
“For generations our family and our employees have been helping Canadians celebrate their sweetest moments and we’re thrilled to be partnering with the Cooke family who have built a global food processing company with roots in Charlotte County,” said Bryana Ganong. “This exciting investment by Cooke will enhance the company’s capacity to serve customers, provide more opportunities for our incredible employees, and help us continue to enhance our community.”
The terms of the investment transaction have not been disclosed as both parties are private, family-owned businesses.