In 1976, Ferrero opened its first factory outside of Europe in the Australian mining town, Lithgow, New South Wales. Tic Tacs were the first product to come off the line but in 1978, Nutella production began. On its 50th anniversary, employees, their families, community partners and political dignitaries came together to celebrate the milestone.
Today, the factory exclusively produces Nutella, manufacturing roughly 15 million kilos each year for Australia, New Zealand and markets in East and North Asia.
The company has invested $30 million over the past three years, including a rooftop solar array capable of generating up to 20 per cent of the factory’s electricity needs, and a new electric hazelnut roaster that has reduced gas requirements by nearly 90 per cent.
Last year, it announced expansion plans, including partnering with Ceva Logistics to invest in 13,800sqm of temperature-controlled warehousing capacity.
International and local representatives from Ferrero were present, as attendees reflected on the people, work and values that have shaped the site over five decades. The celebration featuring speeches, staff awards, the cutting of a special 50th anniversary cake, and activities exploring sustainability, food safety and quality.
Ferrero regional industrial manager, Christopher Hinton, said the anniversary was a celebration of the people behind the milestone.
“Fifty years is an incredible milestone, but what makes it special is the people behind it,” he said.
“This celebration was about bringing together the many local friends and families who have all contributed to the Lithgow factory, and celebrating the pride, commitment and memories they have built here.
“It has been fantastic to see former colleagues reconnect, families come together and our current team share what they do with the people who matter most to them. That sense of pride and connection is something really special to Lithgow.”
Attendees included employees, former employees, families and local community partners as well as Lithgow mayor, Cassandra Coleman, Blue Mountains MP, Trish Doyle, Calare MP, Andrew Gee, Bathurst MP, Paul Toole, and deputy mayor, Eric Mahony.
Doyle presented Ferrero with Platinum Project recognition from the NSW government’s Sustainability Advantage Program, acknowledging the sustainability outcomes achieved at the Lithgow site.
In July, Terence Viney was appointed ANZ general manager, replacing Massimo D'Ambrosio.
