D- Day for Kiwi choc favourites

Possible buyers have come forward for Kiwi favourites Jaffas, Pineapple Lumps, Buzz Bars and Pinky Bars.

Yesterday was D- Day for the sweets, with production set to go to Australia if a local buyer can’t be found.

Mondelez, the US- based company which owns Cadbury, has been trying to find a local manufacturer to take on production, following news it would be closing its Dunedin factory next year.

“Mondelez i s reviewing the expressions of interest received and will be able to provide more information and updates in due course once these have been considered,” a spokeswoman said.

“Consumers can rest assured that the products will still be available and made in Australia if a local option cannot be secured.”

Supermarket operator Foodstuffs said yesterday that it would support any business that decided to take on manufacturing of the products, calling on companies to “get off the fence” and work to keep manufacturing in New Zealand.

Earlier in the week, the E tu union’s national director of industries, Neville Donaldson, said the offer from Mondelez was a rare opportunity to keep some of the axed jobs from the Cadbury factory, and its products, in New Zealand.

“This represents a chance for ongoing work for E tu members currently employed at Mondelez,” Donaldson said.

“It’s an opportunity for employers to increase their operation and employ loyal and skilled staff to produce the product. That’s a unique situation.

“Mondelez haven’t made any commitment beyond checking out the possibilities, but there is a glimmer of hope for our dedicated members.”