One of the state’s most famous and iconic brand names is set to make a triumphant return to SA-ownership.

Balfours, celebrated as Australia’s oldest bakery, is set to be back under SA ownership just three years after the brand was sold to an interstate buyer.

In a letter to business partners dated May 20, seen by The Advertiser, Unique Homestyle Foods owner and director Matt Brown announced the company had acquired the famous SA brand.

“We are proud to announce that South Australian family owned manufacturer Unique Homestyle Foods has officially acquired the iconic 173-year-old Balfours brand from Perth-based Aus Pie Co,” the letter said

“This marks a significant milestone not only for our business, but for South Australia.”

Mr Brown wrote that bringing Balfours back into South Australian ownership was an “exciting and proud moment”.

“We are committed to restoring and growing the brand while honouring its rich heritage and deep connection with generations of Australians,” he said.

“Importantly, this acquisition also secures more than 400 local jobs and reinforces long term investment into South Australian manufacturing.”

“Earlier this year, we further strengthened our commitment with the acquisition of the Dudley Park production facility, the original home of Balfours, reinforcing our long term vision to invest in and grow this iconic South Australian brand.”

The letter details plans to introduce a “fresh, energetic and modern direction for Balfours on the national stage”

“We see enormous opportunities for growth, innovation and customer engagement across both retail and food service channels.” Mr Brown wrote.

The Advertiser has contacted both Unique Homestyle Foods and Aus Pie Co for comment.

Earlier this month, a legal stoush brewing between the Adelaide Football Club and Balfours cooled with the two parties settling District Court lawsuits.

The Adelaide Football Club was suing Balfours for $300,000 in allegedly unpaid sponsorship fees – but the bakery said the Crows have failed to keep their word and accused the Crows of allowing their logo to be used by its arch rival, Vili’s, in an Adelaide Oval promotional campaign.

However, in a closed-court directions hearing, the Crows and Balfours mutually served notices of discontinuance upon the court.

The terms of the settlement are confidential.

The Advertiser understands Balfours is no longer a sponsor of the Adelaide Football Club following the settlement.