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Download The Hershey Co, North America's largest quality chocolate producer, has announced plans to acquire 80 percent of snack producer Shanghai Golden Monkey Food Joint Stock Co. The acquisition will be done through Hershey Netherlands BV, a wholly owned subsidiary. It's expected to be completed in the second quarter of next year, subject to approval from Chinese regulators and shareholders. Terms of the transaction weren't disclosed, but Hershey said it will make a cash payment for the stake. Golden Monkey (SGM) will operate as a stand-alone business, and its senior management team members will retain their roles. "SGM is the type of business we've been focusing on for potential M&A. It fits Hershey's acquisition criteria: It is located in our primary international market, China; it is a pure play confectionery and snacks company; and it has distribution into channels where Hershey products have yet to penetrate," said Humberto Alfonso, president of international operations at Hershey. "Additionally, the company has a strong history of innovation and product quality as evidenced by the outstanding reputation of its core brand, Golden Monkey, which has been nationally recognized as one of China's most iconic brands.” Rumors of the acquisition began to circulate about one year ago. Zhao Qisan, founder, chairman and general manager of SGM, said, "Hershey and SGM have similar cultures and strategies related to the building and selling of brands, and we're pleased that a company of Hershey's stature sees the potential in our great company.” | 
