Australia’s oldest family-owned chocolate maker, Haigh’s Chocolates, is about to embark on the largest infrastructure investment of its 108-year history. The two-year project starts this month and will ultimately double its chocolate production.
Haigh’s Chocolates chief executive Alister Haigh said the project was a significant milestone for the company.
“It will see our current chocolate production capacity double, allowing us to meet increased demand and interstate growth opportunities, including entering new markets,” Haigh said.
The Salisbury South site in Adelaide is 36,000 square metres. Two new production facilities will occupy 9000m2 and be equipped with $36 million of state-of-the-art European made equipment, including specialised panning, enrobing, and moulding lines as well as kitchen and packing equipment chosen to complement Haigh’s chocolate making capabilities.
And 6000m2 will be warehousing and online fulfillment.
CIP Constructions have been appointed to oversee the development and will engage more than 200 people during construction. The building was designed by BELL Architects.
CIP Constructions CEO Mark Hendry said, “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.”
The cutting-edge facility should be fully operational in the second half of 2025, with up to 400 employees over the growth phase and approximately 150 new jobs. Haigh’s currently employs more than 800 people.
Haigh’s Chocolates COO Peter Millard said, “Not only will this project directly create new jobs and opportunities at this site, but it will also facilitate employment growth across our retail business Australia-wide creating up to 250 new jobs in the medium and long term.”
Haigh’s currently produces 1000 tonnes of chocolate across its two existing manufacturing sites in Mile End and Parkside. Parkside will remain home to its Head Office, artisan chocolate production, and visitor centre. There are 21 Haigh’s stores in Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra, as well as online.
