South Africa, April 28 -- Woolworths has since then said that the Chuckles brand and other chocolate brands will continue to be available nationally in its stores.

While the Chuckles brand is owned by the retailer, it is produced by Beyers Chocolates.

Media reports last week said that Beyers Chocolates had a commercial dispute with Woolworths, and this led to the retailer reportedly cutting orders from the chocolatier, leading to it entering liquidation proceedings.

The dispute was said to be over Beyers Chocolate's factory expansion, which placed its exclusive agreement with Woolworths in jeopardy.

Woolworths has remained tight-lipped about the dispute, only stating, "Woolworths cannot comment on the nature of our relations with Beye...