This year marks the 60th anniversary of the first jar of Nutella created in Italy. To mark the occasion, Italy’s ambassador to Australia and the Italian consul general visited Ferrero’s Lithgow factory, which has produced Nutella since 1978.
In Australia, Nutella has been produced locally at the Ferrero Factory in Lithgow for more than 45 years, since 1978. The factory was the first Ferrero production site to be established outside of Europe, and produces Nutella for Australia, New Zealand and East Asia, with around 13.5 million kilograms of Nutella produced each year. In 2024, this figure is set to grow by an additional 1500 tonnes.
Ferrero Australia Lithgow operations’ MD, Daniel Quack, said the factory was proud to be a significant employer in the region.
“Lithgow has been the home of Australian-made Nutella for over four decades, with 100 staff responsible for producing Nutella. This year, we’re on track to achieve a record level of Nutella production, with more than 15 000 tonnes set to be produced here at our Lithgow factory,” said Quack.
Ferrero Australia MD of business, Massimo D’Ambrosio, said Nutella was present in one-in-four Australian households.
“As an Italian who calls Australia home, it is a pleasure to see that it is an iconic product here as much as in Italy. The growth and success of the Nutella brand in this market, to the point that it’s now enjoyed in so many households, is a testament to the quality of the product,” said D’Ambrosio.
The Italian ambassador to Australia Paolo Crudele, said Ferrero was a ‘standout’ example of a global organisation with Italian heritage and strong Australian connections.
“Italy and Australia’s relationship is deeply valued across the oceans. It’s a pleasure to mark the occasion at the Lithgow factory, the Australian home of Nutella,” said Crudele.
Consulate general of Italy in Sydney Gianluca Rubagotti said Nutella was just one of the important similarities the two cultures shared.
“The relationship between Italy and Australia through Ferrero is enduring, and Nutella is a staple in Italian and Australian homes alike,” said Rubagotti.
