Arnott's Country Cheese crackers

Arnott's Country Cheese Brand History and Ownership

Arnott's Country Cheese is a popular savory snack within the iconic Arnott's portfolio. These crackers are known for being baked with real cheddar cheese, offering a melt-in-the-mouth texture that has made them a staple in Australian and New Zealand pantries for decades. The packaging prominently features the 'Aussie Made' logo, signaling its strong local production ties.

Origin and Manufacturing

The brand traces its origins back to 1865 when William Arnott opened a small bakery in Newcastle, New South Wales. Over more than 150 years, the company grew into Australia's largest producer of biscuits and a leading snack food manufacturer. While the company has seen various international owners, it maintains significant manufacturing operations in Australia, particularly in facilities located in Huntingwood (NSW), Virginia (QLD), and Shepparton (VIC).

Ownership Evolution

Originally a family-owned Australian business, Arnott's was acquired by the American food giant Campbell Soup Company in 1997. However, in late 2019, the investment firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR) acquired Arnott's from Campbell's. As of 2026, the brand remains under the ultimate ownership of KKR, an American global investment company, though it continues to operate as The Arnott's Group with headquarters in Sydney, Australia.