Hansells buys Baker Halls Original

Privately-owned grocery firm Hansells has bought the cordial brand Baker Halls Original from Baker Hall Limited for an undisclosed sum.

The companies have worked together for over a decade, with Hansell's subsidiary PLC making and bottling the Baker Halls range at its New Lynn plant for over 10 years.

Hansells' grocery sales team has also distributed Baker Halls products in New Zealand in recent years.

Current owner of Baker Halls, Gerard Hall, said the business grew out of a family recipe for lemon and barley.

"After trials in my own kitchen in 1987, it became apparent that this product had market potential. Sales to health shops and pharmacies soon expanded to supermarket chains throughout New Zealand," Mr Hall said.

The range has expanded to more than nine flavours, including four low calorie options.

Hansells group managing director Stuart Walker said the range fitted well alongside Hansells drink brands such as Vitafresh, Thriftee and the recently relaunched Jungle Juice.

Hansells has bought the brand outright, but has entered into an agreement with Mr Hall which allows him to pursue export opportunities for Baker Halls Original in certain overseas markets.

- NZPA