Balfours is back where it belongs — South Australia

1853 — Founded in Adelaide | 173 — Years of baking history | 400+ — Local jobs secured

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A homecoming 173 years in the making

We are proud to announce that South Australian family owned manufacturer Unique Homestyle Foods has officially acquired the iconic Balfours brand from Perth-based Aus Pie Co. — bringing one of Australia’s oldest and most beloved bakeries back into South Australian hands.

Balfours’ story begins in 1853, when Scottish immigrants James Calder and his wife Margaret (née Balfour) opened a small bakery on Rundle Street, Adelaide. Their craftsmanship quickly earned a loyal following, and by 1867 the business had grown into the City Steam Biscuit Factory — even supplying biscuits to Queen Victoria’s son Prince Alfred on his visit to Australia that year. After Margaret’s nephew John Balfour joined as partner in 1877, the Balfour name took its rightful place at the front of the shop, and has remained there ever since.

“Bringing Balfours back into South Australian ownership is an exciting and proud moment, and we are committed to restoring and growing the brand while honouring its rich heritage.” – Matt Brown, Owner

Over 173 years, Balfours has survived depressions, two world wars, changing consumer tastes, and more than one change of hands. Through it all, products like the square pie, the choccy donut, and the iconic Frog Cake — officially listed as a South Australian Heritage Icon by the National Trust in 2001 — have remained fixtures in homes, schools, and sporting venues across the state and beyond.

What’s next

Looking ahead, we are excited to introduce a fresh, energetic, and modern direction for Balfours — while continuing to deliver the quality, familiarity, and trusted products that consumers know and love. We see enormous opportunities for growth, innovation, and customer engagement across both retail and foodservice channels.

FAQ

Who has acquired Balfours? South Australian family owned manufacturer Unique Homestyle Foods has officially acquired the Balfours brand from Perth-based Aus Pie Co. Unique Homestyle Foods is based at 91 Exeter Terrace, Dudley Park SA — the original home of Balfours production.

What happens to current Balfours staff and jobs? All existing jobs are secured. The acquisition protects more than 400 local positions and reinforces long-term investment into South Australian manufacturing. Unique Homestyle Foods is committed to retaining the skilled team that has kept Balfours running and growing that workforce as the brand expands.

Will there be new job opportunities created? Yes. As we invest in growing the Balfours brand across retail and foodservice channels nationally, we anticipate creating new roles across production, sales, and operations. We will announce opportunities through our usual channels as they become available.

Will Balfours products change? The much-loved products South Australians have grown up with — the square pie, the choccy donut, the custard tart, and of course the iconic Frog Cake — are staying. We are committed to protecting the quality and familiarity consumers know and love. Over time, we will also be introducing new products and ranges that bring a fresh, modern direction to the Balfours brand.

Will Balfours still be available nationally? Absolutely. We see enormous opportunities to grow Balfours across both retail and foodservice channels at a national level. Our strengthened sales team will be working to expand the brand’s reach beyond South Australia while maintaining the strong local presence the brand is known for.

How can I get in touch or find out more? For trade and supply enquiries, contact orders@uniquehomestylefoods.com.au. For all other enquiries, reach to marketing@balfours.com.au.