A major fruit juice brand and distributor of high-end venues has collapsed after the company was placed into voluntary administration.
HRVST ST Pty Ltd, trading as Hrvst St cold pressed juices, and Real Friends Food and Drink Supply announced that the administrator had “pulled the pin” on October 31.
“This is not something we always wanted to achieve, but it is with tears in our eyes and a lump in our throats that it is time to say goodbye,” the company wrote on Instagram.
“Unfortunately, the administrator withdrew the matter this afternoon. Everything happened extremely quickly. If there are any distributor orders in the system that have not been validated, the administrator will refund you.
“As you can imagine, our hearts are torn into pieces, so be kind out there.”
HRVST ST Pty Ltd, trading as Hrvst St cold pressed juices, and Real Friends Food collapsed after being placed into voluntary administration (stock image pictured)
HRVST ST has supplied products to cafes, restaurants, hotels, grocery stores and retail spaces including Brisbane’s upscale Calile (pictured) and W Hotels.
ASIC records show the notice of Andrew Weatherley’s appointment as administrator was published on October 25, and Mackay Goodwin’s receiver managers Domenico Calabretta and Andrew Quinn were appointed on October 30.
Two days later, the company assured its online customers that it was still business as usual.
“We are committed to keeping the wheels turning and if you know us personally, we are extremely resilient and always strive to go above and beyond,” the company wrote.
“Your support and understanding are invaluable to us and we would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
Hrvst St, cold-pressed juices, said on its website that it was a “proud, independently owned and operated company”.
The Real Friends website said the business includes a “huge range of high quality products handpicked to meet the needs of our valued retail and hospitality partners in Queensland, Northern New -South Wales, Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Central Coast and Sydney”.
The website says the company has supplied products from more than 50 brands to cafes, restaurants, hotels, grocery stores and retail spaces, including Brisbane’s high-end establishments, Calile Hotels and W.
While cold-pressed juice Hrvst St said on its website that it was a “proud, independently owned and operated company”.
Customers reacted with shock and sadness to the company’s online announcement.
“You have obviously had incredible work and support,” one commented.
“The fact that administrators are shutting you down shows short-sightedness and heartlessness. Money is nothing compared to your amazing team and customers.
“Sending love, such a heartbreaking thing to happen,” another wrote.
HRVST ST client No Do Donuts said working with the company had been an “absolute pleasure”.
“I remember you filling our refrigerators very early in the morning 8 years ago. You should be so proud of everything you have accomplished! I’ve built an incredible brand and business.
Last month, iconic frozen dessert company Sara Lee collapsed and was placed into administration, putting 200 jobs at risk.
The Australian company, famous for its frozen treats including apple pies, cheesecakes and ice creams, has been a family favorite for more than 50 years.
More soon.
