Hval sjokoladefabrikk is a
chocolate factory in
Sandefjord,
Norway. It manufactures and markets
confectionery made of chocolate and
marzipan. It was established by Rolf Rune Forsberg at Pindsle in 1995 as
Vestfold County’s only chocolate factory.[3] The factory distributes its products throughout Norway along with some export abroad.[4]
History
In 1999, Hval Sjokoladefabrikk established its first distribution deal with a major grocery store chain in Norway,
ICA Gruppen. Roughly 100
ICA grocery stores began selling their products. The products were also sold in
Color Line ferries. Prior to 1999, their products were only found in
Narvesen convenience stores and
Esso gas stations. Other special distribution deals have included a local distribution agreement with
Meny in Sandefjord.[5] As of 2015, products were sold at a variety of stores, including
Nille and
Europris.[6]
In 2000, investor
Christen Sveaas purchased stocks making him the second-largest owner of Hval Sjokoladefabrikk ASA. Its founder, Rolf Rune Forsberg, remained the largest shareholder with 15 percent. Sveaas purchased 11.1 percent for NOK 2.7 million.[7]