Arnott’s has saluted its 160 years of biscuit making in Australia with a celebration at its Huntingwood bakery in Western Sydney.

Arnott’s Group chief executive officer George Zoghbi said the anniversary was a testament to the company’s resilience and commitment to local production.

“For 160 years Arnott’s has been making delicious biscuits that have become household staples across generations,” Mr Zoghbi said.

“This success is underpinned by our employees, our suppliers, and our unwavering commitment to quality and continued investment in Australian manufacturing.

Mr Zoghbi added the growth Arnott’s had seen was underpinned with supporting regional producers across New South Wales.

“It was great to celebrate this milestone together with representatives from the NSW Government who similarly recognise that as we grow, so too does our support for local suppliers including wheat growers in the Riverina and across NSW, canola farmers in northern NSW and sugar growers in the Northern Rivers region, amongst others,” he said.

NSW Premier Chris Minns attended the celebration and said his visit had highlighted the importance of supporting the local industry.

“Arnott’s is a great Australian brand – founded and still based in NSW,” he said.

“It was great meeting the Arnott’s workers… I’ve eaten my fair share of Chicken Shapes and Tim Tams over the years, so it was great to say thanks to the workers who make them.”

MNSW Minister for Domestic Manufacturing Courtney Houssos also commended the company’s longevity and innovation, saying “for 160 years Arnott’s has shown how domestic manufacturing can deliver quality products, constant innovation, and enduring community value.”

“It was wonderful to visit the facility and  meet so many of the people who make Arnott’s famous products. Their passion and technical innovation continue to drive this iconic brand forward.”

NSW Innovation and Trade Minister Anoulack Chanthivong agreed, and noted the company’s role in global exports.

“Not only is Arnott’s a powerhouse of local manufacturing, they are also setting their sights on the international market, with a significant portion of what’s produced being exported across the globe,” he said.

Arnott’s was first founded in 1865 by Scottish immigrant William Arnott, who opened a bakery in Newcastle. In the past five years alone Arnott’s has reportedly invested more than $250 million across its network, including $50 million at the Huntingwood bakery alone to enhance production capacity and support export growth.