Unilever International, Marmite’s distributor in Singapore, has stopped supplying the product to the market. The shortage has driven prices on some e-commerce sites to more than seven times their previous retail level.
Responding to CNA on July 28, the company acknowledged that many shoppers were unhappy about Marmite’s absence from supermarkets.
“Following ongoing supply challenges, we have made the difficult decision to discontinue the Marmite brand in Singapore,” it said.
Unilever did not disclose what had caused the supply problems, but recognized the product’s longstanding place in the local market. “We thank all Marmite fans for their continued support and enthusiasm.”
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Marmite jar. Photo from Instagram/@khaichi_heng |
Produced from yeast extract, Marmite is known for its thick texture and powerful combination of salty, savory and umami flavors. In Britain, it is most commonly spread on toast. In Singapore, however, it has also been incorporated into dishes such as Marmite chicken and Marmite pork ribs, making it a familiar ingredient for many local families.
Confirmation that local distribution had ended left longtime fans disappointed. A 54-year-old woman identified as Sin recalled drinking Marmite mixed with hot water as a child and later preparing the same drink for her own child. “There goes my childhood, stirring a spoonful of Marmite into hot water and just drinking it. I used to do that for my kid as well,” she told The Straits Times.
As supplies have dwindled, Marmite has gone from an ordinary household product to a prized online purchase. According to Asia News, sellers on Lazada, Shopee and Carousell have sharply raised their prices as buyers search for the remaining stock.
A 250g jar previously cost S$10.9 (US$7.8) through RedMart. Individual jars are now being offered for more than S$20, while some larger packages have been listed at close to S$50.
Retailers are attempting to restore supplies through other channels. FairPrice said it was considering overseas sources, while Cold Storage said it was working with suppliers to find replacement stock.
There may still be some hope for Marmite lovers in Singapore. According to the South China Morning Post, Unilever Singapore told a customer on social media on July 22: “[We] heard your concern about your interest with Marmite and don’t worry, hopefully we might still consider bringing it back in the future.”