A large shipment of KitKat chocolate bars weighing approximately 12 tons has been stolen in Europe, raising concerns that store shelves could be short on the popular treat just ahead of the Easter season, according to Nestle.
The Swiss-based food company confirmed that the theft involved a truck carrying hundreds of thousands of bars from its newer product line. The vehicle vanished last week while en route between manufacturing and distribution points.
KitKat, owned by Nestle, told AFP on Saturday that “a truck transporting 413,793 units of its new chocolate range has been stolen during transit in Europe.” The company said the shipment disappeared while moving through its supply chain.
Referencing the brand’s well-known slogan, a company spokesperson addressed the unusual theft with a touch of humor. “We’ve always encouraged people to have a break with KitKat,” a spokesperson told AFP, referring to its famous catchphrase. “But it seems thieves have taken the message too literally and made a break with more than 12 tons of our chocolate.”
Nestle said the truck had departed from a production facility in central Italy and was on its way to Poland when it was taken. As of now, both the vehicle and its cargo remain missing.
“the vehicle and its contents remain unaccounted for.”
The company said authorities are actively working to track down the stolen shipment in coordination with partners across its distribution network.
“Investigations are ongoing in close collaboration with local authorities and supply chain partners,” Nestle said.
Officials warned that the loss could disrupt supply levels in stores across Europe, potentially making it harder for shoppers to find KitKat products in the lead-up to Easter.
Nestle also cautioned that the stolen bars might resurface through unauthorized sales channels in various markets.
To help identify the missing goods, the company noted that each bar carries a traceable batch code that can be scanned.
“If a match is found, the scanner will be given clear instructions on how to alert KitKat who will then share the evidence appropriately,” it said.
KitKat confirmed on Sunday that the stolen shipment totals around 12 tons and said it is cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
“Good news: there are no concerns for consumer safety, and supply is not affected,” KitKat’s official account on X said in a statement.
