Creating moments of pure joy

Manuko is a specialist manufacturer, based on the Surf Coast, passionate about crafting premium organic products and raw chocolate treats.

The company ison a mission to make extraordinary products that create moments of pure joy for people, while fostering a healthier life and a more sustainable world.

“The initial seed of inspiration for Manuko came in 2007 when I was working in a corporate job in the CBD of Melbourne,” founder Matthew Hardie said.

“Feeling disillusioned with office life, and with a growing passion for health and wellbeing, I became increasingly aware of the lack of genuinely healthy, sustainable and delicious food options. I felt there was a need for high quality food options that enable us to make choices that are great for our health, our taste buds and for the planet.

“While also connecting people with the growers behind the food we eat, just like I witnessed growing up on an organic and biodynamic dairy farm. At the time, I wrote down the initial vision for Manuko and called it a ‘True Food Revolution’.

“I decided that year to turn down a career in the corporate world and follow a different path.”

After complenting studies in International Business and travelling the world, Mr Hardie returned to Melbourne and started Manuko with his new partner Inga Muribo in 2012.

“The Manuko journey has gone from the home kitchen, to the spare bedroom, to a commercial kitchen, to a contract manufacturer, to a shared kitchen, to our first factory in Thornbury and finally to today, our factory on the Surf Coast,” he said.

Manuko now has a small and dedicated team, and its products are now stocked in more than 150 stores across Australia and growing, and exported to Japan.

“We’re privileged to be working with some amazing ingredients and suppliers, from our Peruvian cacao, to locally grown hazelnuts from the high country, to our locally harvested pink lake salt and locally grown carob,” Mr Hardie said.

“We’re excited about the future and continuing to bring unique and extraordinary products to the world that bring joy to people’s lives, whilst contributing to a healthier life and a more sustainable future.”