Much-loved lolly manufacturer Smyth’s Confectionery to close its factory after more than 100 years in business
A beloved candy maker is closing its factory doors after more than 100 years in business.
Smyth’s Confectionery, which has a factory in Adelaide, South Australia, will close in June next year.
The firm’s owners have accepted an offer from the South Australian government to “put out” their business and bulldoze their 3,500 square meter factory to make way for a series of highways as part of the North-South Corridor.
Smyth’s Confectionery, which began selling lollipops from a stand at Adelaide Central Market in 1910, now produces sweets for distributors and wholesalers across the country.
Its hugely popular Christmas Blend packs are sold in major supermarkets including Coles and Woolworths.
Smyth’s Confectionery, based in Adelaide, South Australia, is finally closing its doors after more than a century of producing candy. Its hugely popular Christmas Blend bags (pictured) are sold in major supermarkets including Coles and Woolworths.
The company’s plant and equipment will be taken over by the Sydney-based confectionery manufacturer.
They were a feature of many Australians’ childhoods and continue to sell in huge numbers.
“Christmas candy mixers were my mum’s favourite, it wouldn’t be an Australian Christmas without them,” one fan wrote online.
But treat bag lovers better hurry as there are doubts over whether the range will continue into next year.
The company’s Christmas Mixture bags are a childhood staple for many Australians (pictured: their Adelaide warehouse).
Company director Peter Smith, whose great-grandfather founded the business, told Daily Mail Australia that “the Christmas concoction is in the air.”
“I don’t know if this will continue,” he said.
He added: “I’ve been in the business for 40 years, my father is still working – he’s been here for 67 years.
“The government initiated this because we are in the path of a new road. But in the end we decided to close the business. Smyth’s will continue to operate but will be heading to Sydney.”
A long-term customer purchases the Smyth plant and equipment and will continue to manufacture candy in Sydney.
It is understood the firm’s owners are cutting short the Christmas holiday this year to try to stay as far ahead of demand for shares as possible to ensure a smooth transition for its clients.
The company also produces lollipops for other companies under different brands.
The South African government offered market value for its factory, but refused to pay the relocation costs.
Company director Peter Smith (pictured) said another firm would continue the Smyth range in Sydney.
A source working in the confectionery industry said they understood the firm’s decision to accept the offer.
“Manufacturing in Australia is currently in an unhealthy state and there are no profits here,” the source said.
“The likes of Woolworths and Coles make you look skinnier rather than skinny.
“They really prevent you from raising the price to the level you want and don’t give you any commitment for years to come.”