Hochstrasser has supplied coffee for the Emmi Caffè Latte range since its launch in 2004 | Photo credit: Emmi Group

Swiss dairy giant Emmi Group has agreed to acquire Lucerne-based coffee roaster Hochstrasser in a bid to strengthen its Emmi Caffè Latte ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee brand. 
 

Hochstrasser has supplied coffee for the Emmi Caffè Latte range since its launch in 2004. The RTD brand is currently sold in seven European markets, including Switzerland, France and the UK. 

“By taking over the traditional Lucerne coffee roastery Hochstrasser, we are strengthening our coffee expertise for our iconic and innovative brand Emmi Caffè Latte. In doing so, we are bringing the expertise for high-quality, premium coffee, freshly roasted in Lucerne, and the best Swiss milk closer together,” said Marc Heim, Executive Vice President Switzerland, Emmi Group. 

In addition to generating greater production synergies for Emmi Caffè Latte, Emmi Group said the acquisition will ‘further elevate the market position’ of the Hochstrasser and Don George ground, wholebean and instant coffee ranges. 

The transaction, the terms of which have not been disclosed, is subject to approval from competition authorities. In a press release, Emmi Group said Hochstrasser will continue to operate independently with Managing Director Kevin Heer retaining his position when the deal is finalised.

Founded in 1852, Hochstrasser primarily serves horeca clients, with its Hochstrasser brand distributed in central Switzerland and Don George across the German-speaking west of the country. 

Alongside its packaged coffee range, the business also supplies coffee machines, grinders and spare parts, as well as premium teas and drinking chocolate. 

Emmi Group generated CHF 4.2bn ($4.7bn) in sales in 2023 while Hochstrasser achieved approximately CHF 17m ($18.9m).