Barry Callebaut Group, the world's leading manufacturer of high quality chocolate and cocoa solutions, announced a strategic partnership with Microsoft. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Barry Callebaut's strategic investment program, BC Next Level, which aims to move the company closer to customers and markets and simplify and digitize the front and back ends. This partnership lays the foundation for a seamless integration across the entire value chain - from cocoa farmers all the way to customers.

As part of the BC Next Level program, announced in September 2023, Barry Callebaut has committed to developing an agile, tech-enabled organization; to enhance operational efficiency, drive innovation, and support sustainable growth. Microsoft has been identified as the ideal partner to help achieve these goals. Its state-of-the-art cloud technology, data and analytics tools, Artificial Intelligence (AI) offerings, and collaboration suite, will increase Barry Callebaut's speed to market and facilitate seamless partnerships and collaboration within Barry Callebaut and with its customers. Leveraging Microsoft's AI and digital solutions, Barry Callebaut will streamline production, optimize supply chains, and enhance customer experience.

Amr Arafa, Barry Callebaut’s chief digital officer, said, "As part of our commitment to getting closer to our customers and markets, our BC Next Level investment program aims to foster simplicity and digitalization. Today, we are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Microsoft, which marks a significant milestone on our digital transformation journey, unlocking exciting possibilities for our organization."

Marijke Schroos, general manager of Microsoft Benelux, added, "Barry Callebaut’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is inspiring. We are very excited to provide the digital tools and platforms that will support their goals and drive transformative outcomes. With AI at the forefront, we can optimize processes, ensuring more efficient and effective achievement of sustainability targets and innovative breakthroughs."

This partnership showcases Barry Callebaut's commitment to leading the industry with advanced technology, setting new standards in operational excellence, quality, and sustainability, to lead the chocolate and cocoa industry into the future.