In a move that sweetens the future of South Australia’s confectionery landscape, Haigh’s Chocolates has unveiled ambitious plans for its $130 million Salisbury South Development. This project marks the largest infrastructure investment in the history of the iconic family-owned business, signalling a new era of growth and expansion.
The development, set to break ground this month, will see Haigh’s Chocolates doubling its current chocolate production capacity. This expansion is not just about meeting the growing demand but also about exploring new markets and interstate growth opportunities. “This project represents a significant milestone for Haigh’s, as it will see our current chocolate production capacity double, allowing us to meet increased demand and interstate growth opportunities, including entering new markets,” shares Alister Haigh, the Chief Executive of Haigh’s Chocolates.
Slated to be fully operational in the second half of 2025, the state-of-the-art facility is expected to accommodate up to 400 employees during its growth phase. This includes the creation of approximately 150 new jobs. “Not only will this project directly create new jobs and opportunities at this site, it will facilitate employment growth across our retail business Australia-wide creating up to 250 new jobs in the medium and long term,” explains Peter Millard, Chief Operating Officer of Haigh’s Chocolates.
The development spans an impressive 9,000m2 for new production facilities and an additional 6,000m2 dedicated to warehousing and online fulfilment. A significant portion of the investment, $36 million, is allocated for state-of-the-art European equipment. This includes specialised panning, enrobing, and moulding lines, as well as kitchen and packing equipment, carefully selected to enhance Haigh’s artisan chocolate-making capabilities.
CIP Constructions, appointed to oversee the development on the 36,000m2 site, will engage over 200 people to support the construction. The building, designed by BELL Architects, is set to become one of Adelaide’s premium industrial facilities. “Today commemorates the start of construction on what will surely become one of Adelaide’s premium industrial facilities. Early works set to get underway include bulk earthworks and inground services before standing steel in early 2024,” says Mark Hendry, Chief Executive Officer of CIP Constructions.
Haigh’s Chocolates, with a rich 108-year history, currently employs more than 800 people and produces 1000 tonnes of chocolate annually across its two existing manufacturing sites in Mile End and Parkside. These sites will continue to house its Head Office, artisan chocolate production, and Visitor Centre. The brand’s presence extends beyond its production, with 21 Haigh’s stores across Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra, and a robust online platform.
More details on Haigh’s Chocolates can be found at https://www.haighschocolates.com.au/
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