Welcome to Wallonia, Leonidas! The construction of the new Nivelles plant has begun
The famous Belgian chocolatier Leonidas has marked a historical milestone by symbolically placing the first stone of its new plant in the Nivelles Nord business park.
.jpeg?thumb=content-picture)
A 70 million euro investment for a modern plant
Leonidas has decided to leave its two sites in Anderlecht to group its activities in a new 30,000 m² plant in Wallonia. A 70 million euro investment financed both by itself and by bank loans illustrates the company’s ambitious vision for the future.
“This new plant was built to support Leonidas’s development both in Belgium and worldwide. It will enable us to optimise our production and logistics while offering a work environment that guarantees our employees’ well-being.” Philippe de Selliers, Leonidas CEO
A modern and sustainable site
The new plant, designed by AAVO Architects and the design office IPS is aiming for BREEAM Excellent certification, demonstrating Leonidas’s commitment to environmental sustainability. With nearly 1,000 m² dedicated to research and development, the site will strengthen its R&D division, promoting innovation in praline production.
The move in two phases
The move to the new plant will take place in two phases. Logistics and part of production will be transferred during summer 2025, while the rest of production will follow the year after. The offices will be moved during winter 2025. In total, 400 jobs will be affected by this transition.
Leonidas, a chocolate success story
Founded in 1913, Leonidas is celebrating its 110th anniversary this year. With over 1,200 shops worldwide, including 400 in Belgium, the company has grown constantly. In 2023, Leonidas’s turnover has already increased by 13 to 14% confirming the ongoing popularity of its products.
“With this new site in Nivelles, we hope to be able to improve our services even further, offer more choice in our assortment and train our staff even better, through Leonidas Academy. In fact, we want to keep strengthening our assets, so they remain unique and unbeatable.” Philippe de Selliers, Leonidas CEO
A new era
The new plant in Nivelles marks a new era for Leonidas, a company that has been able to maintain the quality and authenticity of its products while embracing innovation and sustainability. The site’s full inauguration is scheduled for summer 2026, marking an important chapter in the history of the iconic Belgian chocolate-maker.
You want to set up and increase your agrifood business in Wallonia, like Leonidas did?
Our sectorial business specialists will help you, at every step of your project, to set up easily your business in Wallonia.
