As the festive season approaches, Australians are accustomed to the sight of certain treats lining the shelves, ready to be tucked into stockings or shared around the Christmas tree. However, this year, a shadow has been cast over the holiday cheer with the news that the beloved Celebrations chocolate boxes have been pulled from the shelves for good, leaving many shoppers in a state of disbelief and outrage.
The decision to discontinue the product was not taken lightly. Mars-Wrigley, the parent company behind Celebrations, cited escalating costs and logistical challenges as the primary reasons for the product’s withdrawal. ‘Our CELEBRATIONS® products were imported from Europe and like many Australian businesses importing products from overseas, we are experiencing rising cost-pressures and supply challenges,’ a spokesperson explained.
The impact of this decision was immediate. Major supermarkets have already cleared their shelves of the chocolate boxes, and online listings show them as ‘currently unavailable’. This has left many consumers scrambling to find a suitable replacement for their holiday gatherings and gift-giving.
Foodie Russ Stuart, known for his reviews under the name Russ Eats, expressed his dismay upon learning the news. An insider had informed him that Celebrations had been discontinued ‘at least for this year’. ‘This really upsets me to be honest,’ he said. The sentiment was echoed by his followers, with one lamenting, ‘Won’t be a Christmas without Celebrations,’ and another expressing disbelief, ‘Say it’s not true Russ. You’re normally my outlet for good food reviews and news. You ruining my Christmas wasn’t on the bingo card this year.’
In a twist that reflects the ingenuity of some, entrepreneurial shoppers who had stockpiled Celebrations are now capitalising on the scarcity. Reports have surfaced of packets being listed on eBay for as much as $193, while Amazon has them priced at a staggering $99.
Despite the current situation, Mars-Wrigley has not closed the door on the future of Celebrations. The company is exploring options to reintroduce the chocolates by 2025. ‘We know CELEBRATIONS® is a much-loved brand that plays a role at many family gatherings, events and of course, celebrations. Therefore we are currently reviewing options to reintroduce CELEBRATIONS® in 2025. We hope to have positive news to share with Australian consumers over the coming months,’ the spokesperson said.
This statement has sparked speculation among fans, with some suggesting that the discontinuation may be a clever marketing strategy. ‘Best marketing play of the year. You watch them comeback December 1,’ one fan speculated.
Will you be seeking out alternatives, or perhaps starting new traditions altogether? Let us know in the comments below!
Also read: Why you should eat more chocolate
