Exhibiting at Foodex Japan 2025

Trefin Candies & Chocolates: A Legacy of Belgian Confectionery Excellence

Trefin Candies & Chocolates is a distinguished Belgian confectionery manufacturer renowned for its premium chocolates, toffees, and hard-boiled candies. Established in 1929, Trefin has been crafting high-quality sweets for nearly a century, blending tradition with innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences. Based in Lokeren, Belgium, the company operates as a family-owned business, preserving artisanal expertise while embracing modern production techniques.

Core Business and Specialization

Trefin specializes in the production of premium confectionery, particularly sugar-based hard candies and chocolate-based treats. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality, using only the finest Belgian chocolate and carefully selected ingredients. With a strong focus on export markets, Trefin supplies its products to over 60 countries worldwide, ensuring that its sweets reach a broad international audience.

Product Portfolio

Trefin offers a diverse range of confectionery products categorized into three main segments:

• Hard-Boiled Candies

  • Hartmint
  • Cristal Fruit

• Toffees

  • Orfina

• Chocolates

  • Belgian Eclair
  • Neapolitans
  • Pralines
  • Truffles

The company takes pride in its traditional recipes while continuously developing new flavors to cater to changing consumer tastes.

Market Reach and Export Performance

Trefin is a well-established player in the global confectionery market. The company exports a significant portion of its products, with major markets including Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America. Its long-standing reputation for excellence has allowed it to secure partnerships with retailers, distributors, and wholesalers worldwide.

According to international trade data, Trefin has shipped thousands of metric tons of confectionery products annually, reinforcing its position as a leading exporter of Belgian chocolates and candies. The company has a strong presence in duty-free shops, supermarkets, and specialty confectionery stores.

Certifications and Compliance

Trefin adheres to the highest industry standards and is certified by leading food safety organizations, ensuring that all products meet rigorous quality control measures. Key certifications include:

• HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)
• IFS (International Featured Standard) Food Certification
• BRC (British Retail Consortium) Certification
• Kosher and Halal Compliance (for selected products)

These certifications reinforce Trefin’s commitment to producing safe, high-quality confectionery products that comply with global food safety regulations.

Financial Performance and Growth

While detailed financial figures for Trefin are not publicly available, the company has reported consistent revenue growth driven by strong export demand. The Belgian chocolate and confectionery industry, valued at over €5 billion annually, continues to expand, and Trefin remains a key contributor to this growth. With increasing consumer interest in premium chocolates, Trefin has successfully capitalized on market trends favoring high-quality, artisan-inspired confections.

Customer Trust and Industry Recognition

Trefin’s reputation for quality and consistency has earned it a loyal customer base. Many international retailers and wholesalers rely on Trefin for their private-label confectionery needs, further solidifying its standing in the industry. The company’s focus on traditional Belgian craftsmanship combined with innovation has led to various industry recognitions and accolades.

Future Outlook and Expansion Plans

Trefin continues to innovate by expanding its product line and enhancing sustainability efforts. The company is actively investing in eco-friendly packaging solutions and exploring new product formulations that cater to health-conscious consumers, including sugar-free and reduced-sugar options. With a well-established distribution network and a commitment to excellence, Trefin is poised for continued growth in both emerging and established markets.

Conclusion

Trefin Candies & Chocolates embodies the rich tradition of Belgian confectionery, delivering high-quality sweets that have delighted consumers for generations. With a strong export presence, internationally recognized certifications, and a commitment to innovation, Trefin remains a key player in the global confectionery industry. As the demand for premium Belgian chocolates and candies continues to grow, Trefin is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide.