Aussies’ uproar over Iced VoVo biscuits: ‘Boy was I disappointed’

Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


Iced Vovo.jpg
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


247111955_5100196343329793_2269260859285447401_n.jpg
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
 
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In WA Arnotts bought out Mills & Ware back in the seventies., and we haven't had good quality biscuits and cakes since then.
 
Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


View attachment 32420
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


View attachment 32419
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
I have not eaten biscuits in years until recently. Like dad use to do, he would have a glass of milk & couple bikkies before bed..bad habit I know. I guarantee you none of the arnott's biscuits taste like they used to, and size of them resembles a shrinking violet..as the saying goes. It also surprised me that they don't have the same range and I certainly agree the fillings and flavours are not what they used to be with any of their biscuits. That's what happens when Australia sells off their companies to overseas investors....quality and quantity are lost forever.
 
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I must agree. I hadn't had a vovo in years and had a taste for them recently. I was greatly disappointed. Smaller and basically tasteless. Won't be buying them again.
 
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‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

Well, he WOULD say that, wouldn't he? Such a gushing response reminds me of the old Monty Python "Crunchy Frog" sketch:
Mr. Milton, the owner of the Whizzo Chocolate Company (Terry Jones) is approached by two members of the Hygiene Squad, Inspector Praline (John Cleese) and Superintendent Parrot (Graham Chapman). The officers confront him about the odd flavours that are used in the "Whizzo Quality Assortment", and cite inadequate descriptions of his products as a violation of the Trade Descriptions Act. They ask him to explain the confection labelled "Crunchy Frog". Milton describes it as an entire frog that has been coated with chocolate, using only "the finest baby frogs, dew picked and flown from Iraq, cleansed in finest quality spring water, lightly killed, and then sealed in a succulent Swiss quintuple smooth treble cream milk chocolate envelope and lovingly frosted with glucose." Circular logic is used to explain why the bones aren't taken out: "If we took the bones out, it wouldn't be crunchy, would it?"

Other questionable items include the "Cherry Fondue", which is "extremely nasty", but not worthy of prosecution, "Ram's Bladder Cup" (made from "fresh Cornish ram's bladder, emptied, steamed, flavoured with sesame seeds whipped into a fondant and garnished with lark's vomit"), "Cockroach Cluster", "Anthrax Ripple", and "Spring Surprise" (chocolate wrapped around two stainless steel bolts that "spring out and plunge straight through both [of the victim's] cheeks").
 
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Reactions: Loubeauxarts
Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


View attachment 32420
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


View attachment 32419
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


View attachment 32420
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


View attachment 32419
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
I bought a packet of Iced VoVo way back in 2021. They were small and tasted like sh*t, not at all like the delicious biscuit I remember throughout my life. It was like they’d been made by another company, yet branded Arnotts. I was so disgusted at the time and I don’t waste money on Arnotts biscuits anymore.
 
Pricing comes from supermarkets not the manufacture. Coles $1.00 milk ruined so many dairy farmers. Most biscuits have been downsized unfortunatel.
 
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Arnotts biscuits like many other products are being made to a price not a taste. Many things don't taste like they did with changes in ingredients - supposedly to be more healthy - but then not many people just live on biscuits.
 
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I bought a packet of Iced VoVo way back in 2021. They were small and tasted like sh*t, not at all like the delicious biscuit I remember throughout my life. It was like they’d been made by another company, yet branded Arnotts. I was so disgusted at the time and I don’t waste money on Arnotts biscuits anymore.
Gotta agree with you the biscuit was horrible and what was that shit on top.birds got mine.🙀
 
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Haven't had an Iced Vo-Vo since I was six. Bad experience.

At lunchtime, a crowd of kids were gathered around a poor kindergarten girl who popped herself. I had a look and the smell made me spew...

...all over the kid in front's back. Full of Iced Vo-Vos.

Enjoying breakfast are we? 😈
🤮🤮
 
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Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


View attachment 32420
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


View attachment 32419
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
I make my own biscuits and slices now! It’s cheaper and I don’t mind the extra time. Goodbye Arnott!!!!
 
I’d also like to know what has happened to Honey Jumbles, Lattice and Creamy Chocolate!!!!!!
We are Honey Jumbles and Lattice fans too. Have not seen them on the shelves for a long time.
I agree with the claim by others that Arnotts have downsized. I bought myself Iced VoVos as a treat some time ago. Not only are they are smaller in size, but also lacking the same thickness of cream/jam on top. Will not go there again.
 
Even Sao are different. Thinner, smaller and hard. Not like the fluffy texture I remember. None of the Arnott range is as we remember it. Price up but quantity and quality way down!
 
Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


View attachment 32420
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


View attachment 32419
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
 
Yes, don't buy 'cardboard' biscuits, they never got eaten. Make our own, Anzacs, Monte Carlos, Gingernuts, Cornflake/fruit, could go on. Womens Weekly biscuit book, the best. Only problem, they don't last long, gone in 3 days.
 
Who doesn't have fond childhood memories of sharing a packet of Iced VoVos with their mates at school?

Not to mention the countless backyard cricket games enriched with the added delight of Iced VoVos during afternoon tea.


This snazzy yet classic biscuit from Arnott's, which has graced households since 1906, undoubtedly holds a special place in the hearts of Aussies everywhere.

So when one social media user posed the question, ‘What the h*** [had] happened?’ to Arnott’s Iced VoVos—the community waited with bated breath.


View attachment 32420
At Woolworths, Arnott's Iced VoVo Biscuits (210g) are priced at $4. Image source: Woolworths


The consensus was clear: deep disappointment.

Many believed that the iconic Iced VoVos had declined in quality and size over the years, not to mention an overall decrease in taste.

‘I haven’t had one for ages [at] least a decade,’ the user wrote.

‘On a whim, I bought a pack. Boy, was I disappointed.’


‘Everything Arnott’s has touched has been murdered,’ another vented.

‘Orange Creams have less cream and taste stale, Shortbread Creams taste sickly and fake, Monte Carlos has red and white hardened glue instead of filling, Kingston’s are like 30 per cent crumbs, Delta creams just taste wrong, Nice, I wish they were.’

‘I don’t mind an Iced Vovo every now and then, but they do seem smaller these days,’ another chimed in.

‘And the coconut and jam seems much firmer and less off than I remember them being originally.’


View attachment 32419
Arnott's has shared a recipe using their Iced Vovo biscuits: an Iced VoVo ice cream sandwich. Image source: Facebook (@ArnottsBiscuits)


‘I also had one after a long gap and completely lost my s**t. It’s like they hate us,’ a third added.

Some have claimed that Arnott's biscuits haven't maintained their original quality since the company's acquisition by the American investment firm, KKR, in 2019.

However, in response to the mounting criticism, a representative from Arnott’s insisted that the Iced VoVo’s recipe and size remain unchanged.


‘We know Iced VoVo biscuits are a much-loved product amongst Australians, and we are consistently listening to our consumers to ensure our products meet high-quality standards,’ the spokesperson said.

‘Our Iced Vovo biscuits continue to be made by our wonderful team in Marleston, South Australia, who have been delivering the same delicious recipe of smooth fondant, sweet raspberry jammy flavoured topping, and a sprinkle of coconut all on a delicate golden biscuit that Aussies have loved for decades.’

‘As well as the recipe, the biscuit size of our Iced VoVo has stayed the same in recent years.’


Arnott's sold to KKR for $3.2 billion

Private equity firm KKR acquired the renowned biscuit manufacturer Arnott’s, as well as other assets of Campbell Soup Company’s international operations, in a transaction valued at $3.2 billion.

This deal came after an 11-month auction and included the sale of assets such as Arnott’s biscuits and Campbell’s meal and snacking brands across the Asia Pacific region.

The acquisition also encompasses manufacturing facilities and distribution channels in countries like Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Arnott's, renowned for its iconic offerings like Tim Tam and Scotch Finger, records the majority of sales for Campbell International.

David Lang, a representative from KKR, highlighted the significance of acquiring Arnott’s for the firm.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies have taken to social media to express dismay over perceived alterations in the quality of Arnott’s Iced VoVos biscuits.
  • The primary concerns revolve around an alleged decrease in the biscuits' size and taste.
  • Some believe the biscuits haven't been the same since the company was sold to American investment company KKR in 2019.
  • A spokesperson for Arnott's has insisted the recipe and size of Iced VoVo biscuits has not changed.
Members, when did you last enjoy an Iced VoVo biscuit? Have you noticed any differences? Share your observations in the comments below!
 
Iced VoVo's have not been the same as I'd remembered from my childhood for quite a while now it hasn't just happened its been 10 years or more I don't buy them anymore. The only biscuit I still buy from Arnott's is ginger nuts I guess until they change them as well. Arnott's aren't doing themselves any favours by changing the recipe from old and cutting down on ingredients VoVo's used to be my favourite treat as a kid never had them very often.
 

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