Balfours facts for kids
Balfours is a famous Australian bakery. They make yummy pies, pasties, and cakes! You can find their treats in shops across South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales.
How Balfours Started
Balfours began a long time ago in 1853. A Scottish immigrant named James Calder and his wife, Margaret Balfour, opened a bakery. It was on Rundle Street in Adelaide.
Their bakery became very popular. So, in 1872, James Calder opened a bigger factory. It was called the City Steam Biscuit Factory. Balfours became a well-known name.
In 1867, something special happened. Prince Alfred, the Duke of Edinburgh, visited South Australia. James Calder was chosen to be the official biscuit baker for the royal visit!
Around this time, James Calder's nephew, John Balfour, joined the business. They started working together as "Calder & Balfour."
Margaret Balfour passed away in 1887, and James Calder passed away two years later in 1889.
Growing Bigger
In the 1890s, a new factory was built near Carrington Street.
From 1914, Balfours grew even more. They opened cake shops, cafes, and tearooms. They even bought a big cafe called Jackman's Grand Cafe on King William Street. Balfour's Cafe was a very popular spot in Adelaide for 50 years!
Later, the company changed its name slightly to Balfour Wauchope Pty Ltd. This was to honor Charles Wauchope, who was a very important leader for the company at the time.
In 2001, the government helped Balfours move its main factory. It moved from Morphett Street to Dudley Park. Even with this help, the company had some tough times financially.
New Owners
In 2008, Balfours was bought by the San Remo Macaroni Company. San Remo is another well-known Australian food company.
As of 2018, Balfours also has a second factory. It is located in Milperra in Sydney.
See also
