Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group) on Tuesday announced its partnership with luxury Swiss chocolate brand Laderach, a strategic move it said would augment the group’s presence in the confectionery segment. The group’s existing brands in the confectionery segment include Pulse and Chingles candy, while its premium retail brands include Le Marche, L’Opera, Uncafe, and Les Petits.

“This partnership will also mark DS Group’s entry into the chocolate segment, which is the largest in the confectionary space,” the company said in a statement.

Rajiv Kumar, vice chairman of DS Group said the partnership will enable the group to launch handcrafted Laderach chocolates in India.

According to a study by the IMARC group, the Indian chocolate market reached a value of US $ 2.2 billion in 2021 and is expected to touch US $ 3.8 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 9.1% during 2022-2027. The category is led by Mondelez, followed by Mars Wrigley, Nestle, Amul and Ferrero.

Founded in 1962, Laderach plans to set up exclusive boutiques across the country, the company statement said.