Popular Adelaide lolly shop Smyth’s to shut its factory after a century
Well-known SA lolly manufacturer Smyth’s Confectionery is getting set to shut its doors after being in business for more than a century. Here’s why.
SA News
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A much-loved lolly shop has been forced to shut its doors after operating for more than 100 years, to make way for the Torrens to Darlington road project.
South Australian lolly maker Smyth’s Confectionery, on South Rd at Richmond, has been manufacturing sweets since 1910.
The business began from humble beginnings by selling lollies from a stall in Adelaide’s Central Market, and has grown into a well-known distributor and wholesaler across the country.
Their most iconic product, Christmas Mixture bags, have made their way to major supermarkets such as Coles and Woolworths.
In October, the state government announced the addition of a third lane along South Rd as part of the North-South Corridor upgrade would impact businesses along the busy road – including Smyth’s Confectionery.
The 3500sq/m metre factory has set a tentative closing date for June next year but will operate at full production until then.
The firm’s owners, Peter Smyth – whose great-grandfather founded the business and has worked for the company for 40 years – accepted the government’s offer to bulldoze the factory.
It is understood he wished to relocate but at the moment the government offer for the factory site does not include the cost of relocation.
The Advertiser understands Mr Smyth is in negotiations with the state government and a lawyer.
Mr Smyth said without further financial support from the government to relocate the factory and continue operations, the lolly company would permanently close.
A government spokesman said the Department for Infrastructure and Transport had been in discussions with the business about potential options, including relocation.
“It is always our preference to assist businesses to relocate where possible,” the spokesman said.
“A final offer in relation to this business has not yet been made as we are working through their claim and awaiting requested information.
“Any other decisions made in relation to this business are a matter for the business owner to comment on.”
The major road works are part of the state government’s multimillion-dollar Torrens to Darlington motorway project.
Popular South Australian media figure Peter Goers said Smyth’s Confectionery was among his favourite snack treats.
“I also love the SA lollies from Smyth’s Confectionery. Their Christmas Mixture is my yuletide highlight but they also make an Anytime Mixture, which is sublime,” Mr Goers wrote in a 2020 opinion piece.
It has been a tough year for the food and hospitality industry, with these 12 Adelaide restaurants and cafes also forced to close amid the cost-of-living crisis.
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