Tiger Brands has announced plans to sell its iconic Beacon brand and related manufacturing equipment as the company scales back its chocolate production operations.
The sale will include equipment used in the manufacture of chocolate slabs, Easter eggs and a range of assorted chocolate products, marking a significant shift for one of South Africa’s most recognisable confectionery brands.
Despite the move, the company will retain several well-known products, including Nosh, TV Bar, Wonder Bar, Black Cat chocolate and Jungle energy bars.
The decision forms part of Tiger Brands' broader strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on higher-margin business segments, particularly grains, baking and culinary products.
The Beacon sale follows other recent divestments by the company, including the disposal of its Randfontein operations for R282 million. Tiger Brands has indicated that additional assets remain under review as part of its ongoing restructuring programme.
The company said its portfolio optimisation efforts are already delivering positive results. Operating income increased to R2.1 billion, while revenue rose slightly to R17.9 billion during the latest reporting period.
Tiger Brands has also returned R9.2 billion to shareholders since 2024, underscoring its focus on improving shareholder value while reshaping its business.
The planned disposal of Beacon marks the latest step in the company's efforts to simplify its operations and concentrate investment in areas expected to deliver stronger long-term growth and profitability.