Our Founder & CEO, Alec Gunn, appointed to the ECA Board

We are delighted to announce that our Founder & CEO, Alec Gunn, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the European Cocoa Association (ECA).

This is a highly prestigious role, working alongside new ECA President Chris Beetge, Regional Head Europe and Global Head Cocoa Operations at ofi; Vice President Guus de Gruiter, Co-CEO at ECOM Cocoa; and Treasurer Olivier Werbrouck of C. Steinweg; and seven other senior industry leaders.

Alec commented:

I am delighted to be appointed to the ECA Board of Directors. I look forward to working with Chris and fellow Board members to build on the excellent work of previous Directors, and to assist in the continued development of the Association and its vibrant membership.

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What is the European Cocoa Association?

The European Cocoa Association (ECA) groups the major companies involved in the cocoa bean trade and processing, in warehousing and related logistical activities in Europe. Together, ECA members represent 90% of EU cocoa beans grinding, 85% of Europe’s industrial chocolate production and well over 85% of the world production of cocoa liquor, butter and powder.

On behalf of its members, ECA monitors and reports on developments impacting the cocoa sector, both at regulatory and scientific levels. In addition, ECA is actively engaged in European and international fora related to the industry’s commitment to a sustainable cocoa economy.

The Board is currently composed of 11 members: 5 processors, 3 traders and 3 logistics members.

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ECA Events

The ECA organises and hosts a wide range of events for its members across Europe, including regular meetings, round tables, webinars, dinners and networking days. A full list can be found HERE.

In addition, the ECA hosts a key forum every three years for its members. The most recent one took place in Malta in 2025, bringing together members for a mix of business sessions and networking activities. The event provided an opportunity to connect with senior leaders, key stakeholders and industry experts in a relaxed and engaging setting.

For more information, go to the ECA website or follow ECA on LinkedIn.

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