Gone after 79 years—this Aussie favourite won’t be on shelves anymore

For nearly 80 years, its jars of pickled onions and chutneys were a proud symbol of homegrown flavour in Australian kitchens.

From post-war rationing to modern supermarket aisles, Spring Gully Foods stood the test of time.

But now, an iconic chapter in South Australia’s food history has quietly come to a close.

Spring Gully Foods has officially shut down after almost eight decades of operation, marking the end of a beloved brand that has been part of Australian pantries since 1946. The South Australian company, which once survived financial hardship thanks to an outpouring of community support, was unable to recover from mounting financial struggles in 2025. The closure affects 34 workers and leaves $3.8 million in debt across around 1000 creditors.

For many Australians, this isn’t just another business story—it’s the loss of a cherished culinary companion that has flavoured countless family gatherings and weekend barbecues.

From backyard hobby to household name

The story began in 1946 when Edward McKee’s homegrown onion-pickling hobby in Adelaide’s leafy foothills turned into a thriving business. What started as a favour for a friend’s corner shop soon grew into a family-run enterprise known for its quality and authenticity. Founded by the Johnston family, Spring Gully became a fourth-generation company built on time-honoured recipes and fresh, local ingredients.

Over the decades, its product range blossomed beyond pickled onions into sauces, relishes, chutneys, honeys, and jams. Under the umbrella of Spring Gully Foods Pty Ltd, the company also managed well-known labels like Gardener and Leabrook Farms premium honey.

A local success story on a national scale

At its peak, Spring Gully was producing 300,000 jars every week and dispatching up to 10,000 cartons daily. Its products lined the shelves of major retailers including Coles, Woolworths, Foodland, Drakes, and Metcash. For those who grew up with the brand, that familiar label symbolised reliability, family, and the comforting taste of home.

The remarkable rescue of 2013

This wasn’t the first time the company faced adversity. In 2013, Spring Gully entered voluntary administration but was saved by a powerful wave of public support. South Australians rallied to their local brand, making special trips to buy its products while retailers gave the jars prominent shelf space. It was a heartwarming example of community spirit preserving a piece of homegrown heritage.

Why this time was different

In 2025, however, the conditions were far less forgiving. Rising ingredient and packaging costs, lost contracts, and shrinking retail margins left the business unable to recover. Administrator James McPherson said the company had 'lost some large contracts, which they have not been able to recover, and that's resulted in some operating losses.'

Industry analysts noted that inflation, cheaper imports, and supermarket preference for private-label goods have placed immense strain on Australian food manufacturers. McPherson summed up the challenge plainly: 'You're competing against international players who can provide the same product, a similar product at a lower cost.'

A sign of broader industry struggles

Spring Gully’s closure reflects a growing challenge faced by mid-sized Australian manufacturers battling global competition. The combination of higher local costs and shifting consumer habits has created a tough environment for brands that once defined Australian kitchens.

Local residents have expressed sadness over the news, describing it as 'the end of an era' for South Australian food heritage. Many have shared memories of the brand as a symbol of community pride and family tradition.

What happens next

Although operations have ceased, there remains a faint hope that the brand could live on under new ownership. McPherson said, 'It may happen, we may still see Spring Gully products on the shelves.' Administrators are now assessing the company’s financial position and exploring potential sales of assets or intellectual property.

However, McPherson admitted that not all creditors will be repaid in full.

The emotional farewell

The closure has struck an emotional chord across the community. On social media, Australians have shared tributes, recipes, and heartfelt memories of the brand’s unmistakable flavours. For the family behind Spring Gully, who declined to speak publicly, this is 'an extremely difficult time' and truly 'the end of era for their family.'

While the company may be gone, its legacy will linger. From backyard beginnings to an enduring national favourite, Spring Gully’s 80-year journey stands as a reminder of both the resilience—and fragility—of Australian food manufacturing.

If this story left you wondering why so many long-standing local brands are struggling to stay afloat, you’re not alone.

The closure you just read about is part of a much bigger trend hitting the heart of our manufacturing sector.

For a deeper look at how this wave of shutdowns is reshaping industries once thought untouchable, check out the story below.

Read more: Shocked by all the closures? Here's the truth behind Australia’s manufacturing collapse

What’s your fondest memory of Spring Gully? Did a jar of its chutney or relish hold a permanent spot in your pantry? Share your stories below and celebrate the taste of an Australian classic that defined generations.