CHICAGO — Ferrara Candy Co., a business unit of Ferrero SpA, has agreed to acquire Jelly Belly Candy Co. through CTH Invest, the lead holding company of Ferrara. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The proposed acquisition includes more than 100 flavors of Jelly Belly jelly beans as well as Jelly Belly Candy Co.’s gourmet specialty confections and facilities in California, Illinois and Thailand. Nearly 800 Jelly Belly employees would join Ferrara. Jeff Brown, currently executive vice president of global operations and distribution at Jelly Belly, would become chief executive officer.

“We are excited to bring Jelly Belly’s imaginative products and talented team into the Ferrara community,” said Marco Capurso, chief executive officer of Chicago-based Ferrara. “Our dedication to creating high-quality, innovative sugar confections for the world and our deep relationships with retailers aligns perfectly with the Jelly Belly track record and passion for quality, reliability and customer service.”

Subject to certain conditions, the transaction is expected to close by the end of 2023.

The Rowland family has owned Jelly Belly Candy Co. since its founding in Illinois in 1869. The company introduced its signature brand of Jelly Belly jelly beans in 1976. Today Jelly Belly Candy Co. distributes its products in over 60 countries.

“As we considered the future of Jelly Belly Candy Co., we have been steadfast in our commitment to create a win-win situation for our employees, consumers and products,” said Herman Rowland Sr., chairman of the board of directors. “When I met with the Ferrara team, I recognized a like-minded group that shares our knowledge and passion for the candy business and has the talent and resources to grow our products and the careers of our people around the world.”