Crackerjack: Arnott’s is back in NZ

Australian biscuit and cracker manufacturer Arnott’s Group’s is to return some of its production manufacturing to New Zealand from next year.

The maker of Shapes, Tim Tams, 180degrees crackers, Real Stock and other snacks and ingredient staples has invested in a factory currently under construction in the West Auckland suburb of Avondale.

It is set to open in early 2023. Arnott’s used to have a factory in Otahuhu, South Auckland, but moved to Australia 25 years ago.

The group acquired gourmet Kiwi snack firm 180degrees last year.

Mike Cullerne, Arnott’s Group New Zealand lead, said the Avondale factory would focus on producing gourmet crackers and sweet biscuits.

“180degrees will be the spearhead and then over time we will look to innovate in other premium entertaining categories.”

Arnott’s Group has experienced “healthy growth” across the New Zealand business in the past couple of years through the pandemic.

Cullerne said the opening of the Avondale factory next year was expected to add “dozens more jobs” for the group.

Arnott’s currently employs 175 staff in New Zealand, including 35 based in its Newmarket head office.