J.H. Whittaker & Sons, Ltd (Whittaker's) is a confectionery manufacturer specialising in chocolate and based in Porirua, New Zealand. Whittaker's is the second-biggest chocolate brand in New Zealand, behind Cadbury.[1] The company controls its entire manufacturing process, calling itself a "bean-to-bar" manufacturer, to ensure top-quality products.[1] James Henry Whittaker started the business in Christchurch in 1896[1] and it was later moved to Wellington.
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James Henry Whittaker worked in the British confectionery industry at the age of 14 and moved to Christchurch, New Zealand, in 1890. Six years later he started manufacturing chocolate confectionery, selling it direct to customers using horse and van.[2] In 1913, he established a partnership with his two sons, Ronald and James, based in Wellington. The business became a limited liability company in 1937, with third-generation Whittakers still the sole shareholders in the company. In 1992 the company formed J.H. Whittaker Australia Ltd.[2]
The company supports motor and equestrian sports nationally in New Zealand.
The company's marketing phrases include "A passion for chocolate since 1896" and "Good honest chocolate". In 2011 it was listed as New Zealand's third most trusted brand.[3]
Whittaker's products include:[4]
The products are exported from New Zealand to Australia and Singapore and are also available in some New Zealand shops in the United Kingdom.[5]