SA loses one of its oldest food brands to interstate owners
One of South Australia’s most recognisable food brands founded in 1946 will live on – but no longer under local ownership.
The intellectual property and brands of the longstanding South Australian condiments brand Spring Gully have been acquired by a Sydney-based group that also owns baby food brand Nourish, snacks label Off Beat and seafood producer Brunswick Foods.
Spring Gully Foods entered voluntary administration one month ago, with the company appointing James McPherson as administrator and making 34 staff members redundant.
At the time, the company said it was forced to make the decision after exhausting survival options as it faced rising costs and lost key contracts.
“We know we’re not alone. It’s a challenging time for many Australian businesses facing rising costs, price pressure from imports, and the changing ways we all buy food as the cost of living rises,” Spring Gully said in a Facebook post last month.
Spring Gully was founded in the Adelaide foothills in 1946 and produces gherkins, onions, pickles, relishes and sauces.
The business also entered administration in 2013 but a surge of public support and a renewed focus on local production drew it back from the brink.
Sydney-based Tempo Group of Companies has since announced the acquisition of Spring Gully’s intellectual property and brands, including Spring Gully, Gardener, Leabrook Farms and OZEMITE.
But it would not acquire Spring Gully’s production line assets. The group’s Dry Creek-based plant and equipment would be auctioned off in December in an attempt to recoup debts, reportedly totalling about $4 million.
“The acquisition reflects Tempo’s commitment to supporting local manufacturing and preserving Australian food brands,” Tempo executive director Nicholas Stergiotis said.
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“Spring Gully Foods holds a special place in the hearts of Australian consumers. We’re proud to ensure this iconic brand continues its journey under the Tempo Group, backed by our strong FMCG network and commitment to quality.
“This acquisition also strengthens our presence in the shelf stable (does not need refrigeration) and pantry goods sector, aligning with our broader strategy to grow our multi-brand and private label business.”
Tempo recently added Brunswick, Paramount, Nourish Foods and Organic Choice to its portfolio.
It also plays in the consumer electronics and appliances space, and distributes brands like Philips, Sharp and Hitachi in Australia.
