The New Zealand operation had licensing rights from Irish company Butlers Chocolates.
Kellow and Shephard said Butlers had recently made the decision not to provide further licensing rights for the New Zealand business to operate under its brand.
“Therefore, a full rebrand would be required if the company was to continue trading.”
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The liquidators said Butlers Chocolate Cafe had also faced a “prolonged period of economic challenges” after Covid-19, particularly in Wellington, where four of its stores operated.
The company also had a store at Sylvia Park in Auckland.
“Weakened consumer confidence and reduced foot traffic have taken a significant toll on sales. Over the past year, inflationary pressure…