Kathrine Frich
Chocolate is often described as one of life’s simplest and most delicious pleasures.
It is a go-to treat for millions around the world. But behind the scenes, the industry is under increasing strain.
Company collapse
South African chocolatier Beyers Chocolate has entered liquidation after nearly 40 years of operation.
Founded in the 1980s by Belgian-born Kees Beyers, the business grew into one of the country’s leading independent chocolate manufacturers.
At its peak, the company employed between 700 and 1,000 people.
According to Financial Mail cited by Daily Express, the collapse followed a commercial disagreement with Woolworths, one of its largest customers.
The dispute reportedly centred on exclusivity arrangements, particularly after Beyers expanded its factory operations.
Woolworths declined to comment on the details, stating: “Woolworths cannot comment on the nature of our relations with Beyers due to confidentiality concerns.”
Major supplier
Beyers supplied a wide range of retailers, including Clicks, Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Spar and Massmart.
It also produced goods for major brands such as Mondelez International, Amarula and vida e caffè.
At one stage, the company was producing around 80 tonnes of chocolate each week across dozens of product lines.
Despite the liquidation, Woolworths said its chocolate offerings would remain available.
“We can… share that Woolies chocolate – including Chuckles – is still the exceptional quality that our customers love and expect, and it is widely available across the country,” the retailer said.
industry pressure
The collapse comes as the global chocolate sector faces mounting challenges.
Rising cocoa prices, climate-related disruptions in West Africa and increasing production costs are putting pressure on manufacturers.
Smaller producers, in particular, have struggled to absorb these rising costs while consumers push back against higher prices.
Beyers described itself as producing “South Africa’s finest chocolates” since 1987.
“Fuelled by a passion for chocolate ignited by Kees Beyers, a Belgian master chocolatier, Beyers Chocolates has been a family affair since its beginnings. Using his heritage and handcrafted techniques, Kees brought the magic of Belgian chocolate to South Africa,” the company said.
Sources: Financial Mail, Express
