This article first appeared on Convenience & Impulse Retailing, authored by Tom Oakley-Newell

The Arnott’s Group has officially opened its new multi-million-dollar manufacturing facility in Auckland, New Zealand.

The 4000sqm facility has been designed as an innovation hub for Arnott’s sweet and savoury biscuits across the A/NZ region and to help expand the 180 degrees cracker brand, which was acquired by Arnott’s in May 2021.

George Zoghbi, CEO of Arnott’s Group, said the new facility signals the group’s commitment to ongoing investment in New Zealand, enhancing localised supply chains and strengthening manufacturing, technology, capability, and skills.

“The Avondale facility has been designed to unlock world-class innovation and flexibility for the broader Arnott’s network and will allow us to increase our locally made Arnott’s range,” he said.

“The integration of 180degrees in 2021 and the subsequent construction of Avondale, have meant greater speed and agility within the New Zealand arm of our 157-year-old business, that will allow us to unlock new products and reach new consumers.”

Zoghbi explained that it would also strengthen the century long affection that New Zealander’s have had for the Arnott’s brand.

Mike Cullerne, country director NZ of Arnott’s Group, said the announcement is a welcome boost for local suppliers and will also allow the group to strengthen relationships with retail partners across the country.

“Our fast and flexible facility in Avondale will support further expansion of the premium 180 degrees brand both domestically and in Australia and allow us to develop new Arnott’s biscuits for New Zealand customers to enjoy. Last year alone, New Zealanders consumed over 30 million 180 degrees crackers – an astounding level of support for this locally made brand,” he added.