A Legacy of Taste, Crafted in Malta
Tastees Manufacturing Ltd is a proudly Maltese, family-founded company with a legacy that dates back to 15th March 1969. Established by the late Mr. Ray Calleja, the company began its journey with the production of its iconic snack, Twistees, which quickly became a household favourite. Over the years, this strong foundation enabled the company to expand its portfolio, introducing a wide range of popular brands including Tastees, Sizzzlers, Topsy, and Maralicious.
From its early days operating at Jetties Wharf in Marsa, the company relocated in the 1970s to the Marsa Industrial Estate, where it continues to grow and evolve. Today, Tastees Manufacturing Ltd stands as a key player in the snack manufacturing industry, combining decades of experience with a forward-looking approach to innovation, quality, and production. At the heart of the business is a strong family legacy. Under the leadership of Director Steve Calleja, the founder’s vision continues to guide the company with a clear ambition: to take Maltese-made snacks to international markets.
Tastees Manufacturing Ltd offers a diverse and evolving range of snack products designed to meet different tastes and market demands. In addition to its well-established brands, the company produces rice-based snacks that are exported internationally in a variety of tailor- made flavours, carefully developed to suit regional preferences and consumer trends. The company also specialises in private label production and the creation of customised snack solutions for international partners. From flavour profiling to packaging design, Tastees Manufacturing Ltd works closely with clients to deliver products that align with specific market requirements, making it a flexible and reliable partner in the global snack industry.
The company’s global footprint continues to expand, with exports reaching markets across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Poland, Switzerland, Germany, Canada, Australia, Greece, Cyprus, Kuwait, and Lebanon. Sustainability and efficiency remain key priorities. Continuous investment in modern production technology has improved productivity while reducing energy consumption and waste. The installation of solar panels and the optimization of factory processes further demonstrate the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing.
Central to Tastees Manufacturing Ltd’s success is its people. The company takes pride in its dedicated workforce, many of whom have been part of the organisation for decades. This strong sense of loyalty and experience, combined with a commitment to continuous development, plays a vital role in maintaining the high standards the company is known for. Looking ahead, Tastees Manufacturing Ltd remains focused on growth, innovation, and expanding its international presence. With a strong heritage, a commitment to quality, and the ability to deliver both branded and customised snack solutions—including rice-based and flavour-tailored products—the company continues to bring enjoyable, high-quality snacks to consumers around the worl.
Our Journey Through The Years.
1900 - 1960
L.CALLEJA – Colonial Stores Branch Founded by Lawrence Calleja.
L.CALLEJA – Colonial Stores Branch Founded by Lawrence Calleja. Supplier of the finest and freshest groceries and provisions in Cospicua, Malta, with a subsidiary outlet in Sliema.
1969
Darrell Lea Foods Ltd which later developed into Tastees Manufacturing Ltd in 2019.
From a grocery store founded by Mr. Lawrence Calleja, his son John Calleja extended the business by creating a distribution company called Strand Palace Stores which later developed into Strand Palace Agencies Ltd in 1977. Ray Calleja (son of John Calleja) focused on manufacturing by investing in a factory based in St. Venera which produced the first rice base snack, nougat, chocolate, peanuts and other confectionery items.
1979 - 1983
Launch of new Snacks.
Introduction of Pom-Poms, a corn-based snack with a smooth peanut coating. Tastees was also launched, initially introduced with a bacon flavour. Additionally, an addition was made to corn-based snacks with the launch of Jungle Sticks and Space Balls.
1980s - 1990s
Twistees' Range Grows.
New Twistees flavours were introduced including Chicken, BBQ.
1994
New Management
Steve Calleja takes over the company, focusing on international expansion and increased production capacity.
2018
Tastees Manufacturing Ltd. started its journey of expanding its factory.
Major milestone achieved as Tastees Manufacturing Ltd begins exporting to international markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
2022
Introduced Plant-based Snacks & Factory Expansion.
Launch of Topsy, introducing plant-based snacks to the company’s portfolio. Additional brands include Sizzzlers. Factory expansion with the acquisition of an adjacent facility, increasing production capacity and supporting future growth.
Present
Strengthening Company
Production output increases by 103%, strengthening the company’s position in both local and international markets.
