Nestlé Australia has announced a $30 million investment in its Campbellfield factory in Victoria, aiming to enhance KitKat production with new digital and AI technology.
The upgrade will improve the quality of the iconic KitKat wafer, enable new product innovation, and boost production capacity.
Andrew Lawrey, General Manager Confectionery at Nestlé, said the investment highlights the company’s commitment to local manufacturing and consumer demand.
“KitKat fans love to see new ways to break – and the new technology we have installed in our factory allows us to create new flavours and fillings, textures and tastes.”
A key feature of the investment is a new wafer oven designed to enhance wafer quality across the entire KitKat range.
“We’re excited that this new technology will help us to deliver a crispier, more consistent ‘snap’ – the iconic break that KitKat is famous for,” said Lawrey.
The factory’s upgrade will bring a minor change to the KitKat 4 Finger bar, with the weight decreasing from 45g to 42g due to smaller moulds compatible with the new technology.
Increased automation at the facility will not only support production but also enhance workplace safety by reducing manual handling tasks.
“The safety of our team is our top priority. By investing in automation, we can significantly reduce manual handling, making the job safer for our operators. We will also be able to minimise food and packaging waste.”
One of the first products to be made using the new technology will be KitKat Neapolitan, which will hit Australian shelves in January and New Zealand in February.
Nestlé’s Campbellfield factory employs over 400 people and produces several popular chocolate brands, including Aero, Smarties, Milkybar, and Chokito, along with baking products under the Bakers’ Choice and Plaistowe labels.