Major Queensland juice brand sold in high-end locations and supermarkets is collapsing

A major juice brand and distributor for high-end locations has gone bankrupt after the company went into voluntary administration.

HRVST ST Pty Ltd, trading as Hrvst St cold-pressed juices, and Real Friends Food and Drink Supply announced on October 31 that the administrator had ‘pulled the pin’.

“This is not something we ever wanted to happen, but with tears in our eyes and lumps in our throats, it is time to say goodbye,” the company wrote on Instagram.

‘Unfortunately the administrator pulled out the pin this afternoon. It all happened very quickly. If there are distributor orders in the system that have not been released, the administrator will refund you.

“As you can imagine, our hearts are being torn to pieces, so please be kind out there.”

HRVST ST supplied products to cafes, restaurants, hotels, grocers and retail spaces including Brisbane’s luxury locations, the Calile (pictured) and W hotels

ASIC records show that the notice appointing Andrew Weatherley as manager was published on October 25, while liquidator managers Domenico Calabretta and Andrew Quinn of Mackay Goodwin were appointed on October 30.

Two days later, the company assured customers online 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, always striving to go further,” 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.”

Real Friends’ website states that the company consists of an ‘extensive range of high-quality products, carefully selected 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 indicates the company supplied products from more than 50 brands to cafes, restaurants, hotels, grocers and retail spaces, including Brisbane’s luxury hotels, the Calile and W hotels.

While Hrvst St Cold Pressed Juices said on its website it was “a proud, independently owned and operated company.”

Customers responded with shock and sadness to the company’s online announcement.

“You clearly had a great company and great support,” one person commented.

“The fact that administrators are closing you shows short-sightedness and a lack of heart.” Money is nothing compared to your amazing team and customers.”

“Sending love, something so heartbreaking,” wrote another.

HRVST ST customer No Do Donuts said it was an “absolute pleasure” working with the company.

“I remember you filling our refrigerators in the early morning eight years ago. You can be so proud of everything you have achieved! Built an incredible brand and company.”

Last month, iconic frozen dessert company Sara Lee went bankrupt, putting 200 jobs at risk.

Famous for its frozen treats including apple pies, cheesecakes and ice cream, the Australian company has been a family favorite for more than 50 years.

More to come.