Ferrero Australia has been named winner of the Primary Industries and Regional Development Award at the Banksia Foundation’s 2025 NSW Sustainability Awards. The award recognises sustainability initiatives at Ferrero’s Lithgow factory, including long term investment, innovation and community engagement.
Established in 1976, the Lithgow factory produces more than 15,000 tonnes of Nutella each year for Australia, New Zealand and East Asia, and employs around 100 people.
The site has reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions as part of the Ferrero Group’s target to cut emissions by 50 per cent by 2030 against 2018 levels. The factory is also working towards becoming thermal energy free by 2026.
Sustainability initiatives at the Lithgow site include a rooftop solar array supplying up to 20 per cent of electricity needs, ISO 14001 Environmental Management System and ISO 50001 Energy Management System certifications, and the installation of a vertical electric hazelnut roaster which has reduced gas use by almost 90 per cent.
The Banksia Foundation’s NSW Sustainability Awards recognise organisations demonstrating progress in sustainability across a range of sectors.
“Being recognised among NSW’s top performing businesses is a testament to the innovation and commitment to sustainability at our Lithgow plant,” said Chris Hinton, managing director, Ferrero Australia Lithgow Plant.
“This win demonstrates that regional manufacturing can deliver world class products while reducing environmental impact.
“Most of all, this award is a tribute to our Lithgow team, whose determination to make our factory a benchmark for environmental leadership is delivering real, measurable benefits for our business, our community and the environment.”
Ferrero has also been recognised with three Gold awards under the NSW Sustainability Advantage Program. The company continues to invest in renewable energy, electrification and water management at the Lithgow site.
Ferrero also supports local initiatives including the Seven Valleys Visitor Centre, school career programs and the Lithgow Emerging Economy Plan.
“According to the judges, Ferrero’s sustainability effort stands out for its clarity of vision, robust metrics and measurable early results,” said Graz van Egmond, CEO, Banksia Foundation.
“These are underpinned by active participation in the NSW Sustainability Advantage program and meaningful collaboration with the Lithgow community.”