Shock as beloved Balfours, a 170-year-old South Australian bakery, gets bought out—but by who?
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There's no denying that we deeply appreciate good bakeries, which are a cherished part of our culture.
The inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air and the satisfaction of indulging in a flaky, buttery bite of a meat pie evoke a sense of nostalgia and delight.
And when we're talking about bakeries that hold a special place in many people’s hearts, Balfours, beloved especially to South Australians, is one that immediately comes to mind.
Founded by Scottish immigrants James Calder and his wife Margaret née Balfour in 1853, this iconic bakery has been tantalising taste buds in Adelaide and beyond for an impressive 170 years.
But what sets Balfours apart from the rest? Well, ask any South Australian, and they'd probably say one thing: the frog cake.
This delightful confection is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. And honestly, who can resist the charm of a little green frog crafted from sponge cake and cream?
However, a major change is on the horizon for Balfours, marking a shift in South Australia's culinary scene.
The beloved bakery, famous for its pies, pastries and, of course, those delightful frog cakes, has changed ownership after 170 glorious years.
In a shakeup that has surprised us all, an interstate company, Aus Pie Co (known as the manufacturer of Mrs Mac's, a much-loved pie brand itself), was announced as the new owner.
Officially taking the reins from current owners San Remo on August 1, Aus Pie Co has grand plans for expanding Balfours, aiming to take the brand to a national level—and even planning a step into the international market.
'Currently, the market for Balfours is about 85 per cent in South Australia, and we look to take it nationally,' Bruce Feodoroff, CEO of Aus Pie Co, revealed.
He added with promise, 'We'll look to take the Balfours brand into New Zealand as well.'
Despite this exciting future, one question remains: What will happen to the staff that have been part of the Balfours family over the years?
While reassuring that the bakery's reputation would remain intact, Feodoroff could not guarantee the nature of the changes to the staffing.
Balfours has had a profound journey over its 170-year history, expanding into numerous stores, and facing financial difficulties in the early 2000s, leading to the closure of cafes and eventual acquisition by San Remo in 2008.
However, as the old saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and it looks like San Remo's time with Balfours is drawing to a close to allow them to focus on their main channel—Italian food products.
Here's to hoping that as Balfours embarks on its new journey with Aus Pie Co steering the ship, the future will bring only the best—the beloved flavours we've held dear, with the exciting prospect of even more delicious creations.
Members, we’d love to hear about your cherished moments with Balfours. Do you have a favourite sweet or savoury treat from Balfours??
The inviting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air and the satisfaction of indulging in a flaky, buttery bite of a meat pie evoke a sense of nostalgia and delight.
And when we're talking about bakeries that hold a special place in many people’s hearts, Balfours, beloved especially to South Australians, is one that immediately comes to mind.
Balfours, a beloved South Australian bakery with a rich history spanning 170 years, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Source: UberEats
Founded by Scottish immigrants James Calder and his wife Margaret née Balfour in 1853, this iconic bakery has been tantalising taste buds in Adelaide and beyond for an impressive 170 years.
But what sets Balfours apart from the rest? Well, ask any South Australian, and they'd probably say one thing: the frog cake.
This delightful confection is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. And honestly, who can resist the charm of a little green frog crafted from sponge cake and cream?
However, a major change is on the horizon for Balfours, marking a shift in South Australia's culinary scene.
The beloved bakery, famous for its pies, pastries and, of course, those delightful frog cakes, has changed ownership after 170 glorious years.
In a shakeup that has surprised us all, an interstate company, Aus Pie Co (known as the manufacturer of Mrs Mac's, a much-loved pie brand itself), was announced as the new owner.
Officially taking the reins from current owners San Remo on August 1, Aus Pie Co has grand plans for expanding Balfours, aiming to take the brand to a national level—and even planning a step into the international market.
Balfours is renowned for its famous frog cakes and delightful treats that have become an iconic symbol of South Australian culinary culture. Source: Balfours
'Currently, the market for Balfours is about 85 per cent in South Australia, and we look to take it nationally,' Bruce Feodoroff, CEO of Aus Pie Co, revealed.
He added with promise, 'We'll look to take the Balfours brand into New Zealand as well.'
Despite this exciting future, one question remains: What will happen to the staff that have been part of the Balfours family over the years?
While reassuring that the bakery's reputation would remain intact, Feodoroff could not guarantee the nature of the changes to the staffing.
Balfours has had a profound journey over its 170-year history, expanding into numerous stores, and facing financial difficulties in the early 2000s, leading to the closure of cafes and eventual acquisition by San Remo in 2008.
However, as the old saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and it looks like San Remo's time with Balfours is drawing to a close to allow them to focus on their main channel—Italian food products.
Here's to hoping that as Balfours embarks on its new journey with Aus Pie Co steering the ship, the future will bring only the best—the beloved flavours we've held dear, with the exciting prospect of even more delicious creations.
Members, we’d love to hear about your cherished moments with Balfours. Do you have a favourite sweet or savoury treat from Balfours??
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