The Ferrero Group has announced a €140 million investment aimed at transforming its Ice Cream Factory Comaker (ICFC) in Alzira, Valencia, into the company’s European technology hub for ice cream development, according to Spanish media cited by esmmagazine.com.
Acquired by Ferrero in 2021, the ICFC plant is now fully integrated into the group’s global network and already plays a key role in expanding Ferrero’s ice cream portfolio across Europe.
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“The €140 million investment, which will be deployed through 2030, will support an extensive modernization program. This includes a significant increase in production capacity, the upgrade of existing processes with advanced technologies, and the implementation of innovations to enhance quality, efficiency and sustainability,” company representatives stated.
By 2030, new production lines will be installed to support the development of Ferrero’s own ice cream brands. These include iconic names such as Nutella and Kinder, as well as the historic Camy brand, previously acquired by ICFC.
Traditionally, ICFC operated mainly as a private-label manufacturer for major retailers in Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom. Under the new strategy, the plant will shift its focus entirely toward Ferrero’s own brands and discontinue third-party production.
This strategic shift follows several challenging financial years for the factory. Over the past three fiscal years, ICFC recorded cumulative losses exceeding €28 million. In the most recent fiscal year reported, which ended in March 2024, the company posted a €6 million loss, despite achieving sales of €243 million.
Through this major investment, Ferrero aims to restore the profitability of its Spanish facility while strengthening its long-term position in the rapidly growing European ice cream market.
Photo: RTL Today
