ADM is one step closer to being completely out of the chocolate and cocoa business.

Finally, Cargill has been cleared to acquire Archer Daniels Midland’s chocolate business in Europe — but part of the deal means giving up a production facility in Germany.

Frutarom Industries Ltd, on the top 10 list for the world’s largest flavors and specialty fine ingredients companies, has acquired the assets of Foote & Jenks, hereby named “F&J”.

BBX Sweet Holdings, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BBX Capital Corp., has acquired the assets of Droga Chocolates.

Established in 1969, Kencraft Candy is well known for its Lollipops, LolliKits, LolliLetters, Candy Sticks, Candy Canes, Bubblegum Buddies, Royal Icing Decorations, and Panoramic Sugar Easter Eggs.

One needs to only take a look at this year’s Global Top 100 in our January issue — our annual listing of confectionery companies freezing events in time — to get a snapshot of what happened.

When Forest Gump’s mother pointed out that life, like a box of chocolates, is full of surprises, I don’t think she even expected Lindt & Sprüngli to be the one to acquire Russell Stover Candies.