In a recent tweet that has captured the attention of chocolate enthusiasts and business watchers alike, Dickie Bush shared an intriguing fact: Ferrero Rocher, a brand many may consider underappreciated, generated a jaw-dropping $17.7 billion in turnover in 2023. This remarkable figure places Ferrero Rocher ahead of some of the biggest names in the chocolate industry, such as Hershey, Cadbury, and Lindt.
The tweet goes on to highlight how this family-run empire continues to thrive, despite not receiving the same level of recognition or media coverage as its competitors. With the global chocolate market being fiercely competitive, Ferrero Rocher’s steady rise has come without the need for aggressive advertising campaigns or flashy publicity stunts.
This family runs one of the world’s most successful empires—but no one talks about them.
With $17.7 billion turnover in 2023, Hershey, Cadbury, and Lindt envy their success.
Here’s the full story behind Ferrero Rocher—the most powerful chocolate brand in the world: 🧵 pic.twitter.com/Hh7UkkMP5b
— Dickie Bush 🚢 (@dickiebush) January 9, 2025
Ferrero Rocher, known for its signature golden-wrapped chocolates, has established itself as a symbol of luxury and indulgence. It continues to reign in key markets across the globe, with its products being widely associated with premium gifting. The tweet rightly points out that while brands like Hershey, Cadbury, and Lindt are household names, Ferrero Rocher’s financial success often goes unnoticed.
In 2023, Ferrero Rocher’s turnover of $17.7 billion demonstrates the quiet but powerful dominance the brand holds in the industry. This is particularly remarkable considering how the brand operates on a relatively low-key profile in the public eye. While Hershey and Lindt often enjoy widespread brand recognition, Ferrero’s strategy of subtlety and quality has resonated strongly with consumers worldwide.
Dickie Bush’s tweet sheds light on this powerful empire, encouraging a broader appreciation for Ferrero Rocher’s success. It serves as a reminder of how the Ferrero family has created one of the most enduring and influential chocolate brands globally. Their achievements are certainly deserving of more attention in the media.
History and Founding of Ferrero Rocher
Ferrero Rocher was founded in 1968 by Pietro Ferrero, an Italian pastry chef and chocolatier. The brand was originally introduced as a single hazelnut chocolate covered in layers of chocolate and hazelnut, a combination that proved to be a hit. Pietro Ferrero’s innovative approach to chocolate-making led to the creation of Ferrero Rocher as we know it today: a luxury chocolate brand with a distinct golden wrapping, which has become synonymous with premium gifting.
The company was originally founded in Alba, Italy, and was passed down to Pietro’s son, Michele Ferrero, after his passing in 1949. Under Michele Ferrero’s leadership, the company grew exponentially and became a global force. Michele was known for his strategic vision, which included the acquisition of major brands such as Kinder and Tic Tac, expanding the Ferrero empire across the world.
Today, Ferrero Rocher is part of the Ferrero Group, which is still owned by the Ferrero family. The company remains a family-run business, with Giovanni Ferrero, the son of Michele Ferrero, as the current Executive Chairman. Giovanni took over the company in 2015 after the death of his brother, Pietro Ferrero Jr., who had previously served as co-chairman. Giovanni has continued to grow Ferrero’s international presence, steering the company to even greater heights with innovations and acquisitions, including the purchase of Nestlé’s U.S. candy business in 2018.
Current Ownership and CEO of Ferrero Rocher
The Ferrero Group, which owns Ferrero Rocher, is still controlled by the Ferrero family. Giovanni Ferrero, as mentioned, serves as the Executive Chairman. Lapo Civiletti is the current CEO of the Ferrero Group. Civiletti took over the CEO role in 2018 and has been instrumental in leading the company through major acquisitions and expanding its global footprint. Under their leadership, Ferrero Rocher has continued to thrive, maintaining a strong brand presence in over 170 countries.
The Ferrero Family Legacy
The Ferrero family has maintained tight control over the company since its founding, making it one of the few major companies to remain in the hands of its original founders for generations. Their legacy is rooted in quality, innovation, and subtle marketing strategies, which have made Ferrero Rocher a global symbol of luxury and indulgence.
Ferrero Rocher’s story exemplifies the power of family-run businesses that scale successfully without losing their essence.
With continued growth, especially in markets where competitors struggle, the brand is well-positioned to maintain its dominance. The future for Ferrero Rocher shines as brightly as its golden wrappers, with the empire poised to expand even further in the years ahead.
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