The company, well-known for its crosses, crucifixes and pendant jewellery, as well as bangles and bracelets, began in Italy in 1972 but shifted its manufacturing operations to Adelaide in 1988.
Michael Basedow, principal at Pitcher Partners, has been appointed receiver and manager. Basedow is attempting to sell the business as a going concern, which includes significant plant and equipment, all intellectual property and customer database with an option to purchase existing stock including gold and silver chains and other jewellery.
While there is no indication of the current predicament on the Catene d’Italia’s website, phone calls to the office are answered with a message advising the company was placed into official receivership on 17 September 2013, and directs all callers to Pitcher Partners’ Adelaide office.
It’s understood that more than 10 staff have been placed on annual leave and may lose their jobs if a buyer is not found.
Catene d’Italia operates from a 2,200 square metre factory in Seaton, 12 km from Adelaide’s CBD. Expressions of interest close 6 November.