A total of 300,000 bags and boxes of confectionery, including fudge, boiled sweets and toffee were stolen from a Harrogate warehouse used by the two companies – both part of the Zubrance group. The firms supply large retailers.
The thieves also took large quantities of a recently launched Ultimate English range, which was launched in early 2014 and is sold in more than 200 outlets across Yorkshire.
Items in the range include limited edition Christmas products, from Irish cream fudge to nougat, which were to be sold by independent retailers and farm shops in the run up to the festive period.
Products stolen
Other products stolen also include all stock of the Classic All Butter Fudge and Saltwater Chocolate Truffle Fudge.
Consumers are being urged to look out for products bearing the brands Ultimate English, Ultimate Collection, Confection by Design or Serious Sweet Company sold in unusual circumstances. If they do come across this, they are to report any information to the police as soon as possible.
“The theft has caused a lot of disruption which could not have happened at a worse time than in the run up to Christmas,” said Rob Whitehead, md of the Serious Sweet Company and Confection by Design.
‘Upsetting’
“Obviously the value of the stolen stock is significant but what’s more upsetting is the impact it will have on our ability to meet Christmas orders for our customers, particularly those who stock the Ultimate English range.
“We have spent nine months building up a strong base of fantastic independent retailers who have given us immense support in launching Ultimate English and we will do whatever we can to make sure we don’t let them down.”
Anyone with information about the theft is advised to contact Harrogate CID on 101, select option 2 and ask for Sam Harding. Alternatively, information can be emailed to sam.harding@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number 12140189450.