Chocolate maker collapses

 

388814_10151236109588554_730345349_nAustralia’s first chocolate manufacturer, Ernest Hillier, has been placed in voluntary administration.

Hillier’s, founded in Sydney in 1914 by an English ex-pat, Ernest Hillier, is Australia’s oldest chocolatier and stocks its sweet chocolate treats at David Jones, Coles, and Myer.

Voluntary administrator, Cor Cordis, was appointed on January 11.

Administrator, Bruno Secatore,  said that while financial assessments are conducted it is business as usual at Hillier’s.

“It is our intention to trade through this voluntary administration and to sell the Hillier’s business as a going concern,” Secatore said.

“We have begun examining Hillier’s financial position, and already met with suppliers and staff to fully assess the situation,” he said.

Hillier’s has 60 staff in manufacturing and administrative roles. The company is not to be confused with any retail outlets bearing Hillier’s branding; the company under voluntary administration has no retail outlets.

The first meeting of creditors will be held on Tuesday January 20.

AAP

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