Bittersweet endings: Fan favourite chocolate box is vanishing from shelves

As the festive season approaches, many Australians look forward to indulging in festive meals and treats.

Of course, a festive spread is not complete with desserts to share with family and friends.

However, this year, the confectionery landscape will look a bit different, as a long-time giveaway product just said goodbye to supermarket shelves.


Mars, the company behind the Celebrations chocolates, confirmed the discontinuation of the said mixed chocolate box.

Celebrations first launched in 1997 and contained a delightful assortment of mini Snickers, Mars, Bounty, Galaxy, Milky Way, and Maltesers.

It became the go-to choice for many when it comes to Christmas treats and party favourites.


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The Celebrations chocolate box in 320 grams. Image Credit: Woolworths


However, due to rising costs and supply challenges, Mars has made the tough call to pull this beloved product from the Australian market.

'Our Celebrations products are imported from Europe. Like many Australian businesses importing products from overseas, we're experiencing rising cost pressures and supply challenges,' a Mars spokesman explained.

The decision to discontinue Celebrations was a tough decision.

Yet, it also reflected the current economic climate, where businesses have been grappling with the complexities of global trade and logistics.


The news has sent ripples through social media as fans expressed their disbelief.

One shopper called the decision a 'monstrosity', highlighting the strong emotional connection consumers have with the treats.

A quick search for Celebrations in major supermarkets revealed that the boxes were already 'out of stock' or 'currently unavailable'.

Food content creator Russ Eats expressed his concern over the absence of Celebrations from supermarket shelves.

Russ lamented the loss of what he touted as the 'best Christmas chocolate'.


While Mars is 'currently reviewing options', the company also hoped that Celebrations could make a comeback in Australia by 2025.

However, the absence of Celebrations chocolate boxes left a significant gap in the market for the time being.

It's a reminder of how even the most seemingly permanent products could be vulnerable to the ebbs and flows of business.

It's time to explore other chocolate assortments or support Australian chocolatiers who offer a range of delicious alternatives.
Key Takeaways

  • Mars discontinued Celebrations chocolate boxes in Australia due to cost pressures and supply challenges.
  • The chocolates were imported from Europe, and the current international cost and supply climate impacted its availability.
  • Celebrations chocolate boxes were listed as 'out of stock' or 'currently unavailable' at Coles and Woolworths.
  • Mars started reviewing options for the said treat boxes and hoped to bring the product back to Australia next year.
We encourage everyone to share their thoughts and memories of Celebrations chocolates. Did you have a favourite piece in the box? How will you replace Celebrations in your holiday festivities? Share your stories and opinions with us in the comments section!
 
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