Catalan chocolatier Cudié sells 157,000 kilos of its signature catanias annually, a remarkable achievement for a family firm approaching its 80th anniversary.
The company, based in Moja near Vilafranca del Penedès, exports its unique almond-based confectionery to over 20 countries while maintaining its artisanal roots.
Catalan Chocolatier Cudié’s Secret Recipe for Success
The company’s success hinges on a closely guarded secret ingredient.
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However, the core recipe combines Mediterranean almonds, handmade white praline, and a cocoa powder coating. This formula has sustained three generations of the Cudié family since Josep Cudié founded the business in 1946. Furthermore, his grandson, Oriol Llopart Cudié, now leads the company as both master chocolatier and CEO.
Llopart explains that significant growth followed the 2008 economic crisis. The family conducted a thorough review and decided to professionalise operations. Consequently, they brought in external management and restructured to facilitate expansion. They had exported modestly since the 1990s but realised their high-quality, locally-sourced product deserved a global audience.
The company’s flagship product remains the Original catania, which accounted for approximately 80,000 kilos last year. Nevertheless, innovation is key. They have introduced varieties like Himalayan Salt, Dark Chocolate, Green Lemon, and a new Tiramisu flavour launched for Christmas. The business grew 10% in the last financial year, according to a report in El Periódico.
Expansion Plans and Global Appeal
Current expansion plans include opening more shops in Catalonia and establishing a presence in Madrid. The company also aims to deepen its reach in the Horeca channel. They currently operate shops in Moja, Vilafranca, Vilanova i la Geltrú, and two in Barcelona. One notable location is their hedonistic space on Calaf street, opened in 2020, which invites customers to experience the product’s organoleptic qualities.
While Christmas is a peak sales period for gifts and festive baskets, the Catalan chocolatier Cudié has successfully deseasonalised its catanias. They are now consumed year-round as a dessert, with shops ensuring proper conservation during summer months. Their distribution extends to other gourmet and iconic shops across the region.
The product enjoys particular popularity in Central Europe, especially Austria and Germany. However, Llopart states that everyone who tries them becomes a fan. This global appeal is a testament to a traditional recipe that has embraced innovation while staying true to its origins. The company’s story mirrors the resilience of other local businesses, such as those featured in our guide to finding major discounts across Barcelona.
As the Catalan chocolatier Cudié prepares to celebrate eight decades in business, its blend of tradition, quality ingredients, and strategic growth continues to win palates worldwide. The firm stands as a sweet success story of Catalan entrepreneurship and culinary craftsmanship.
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