The food and drink company announced plans in late 2017 to construct the Big Milo Tin as part of Milo's 85th birthday and to recongise the contribution of Smithtown to the brand.

However, Nestlé General Manager Andrew McIver said that after much work, the company had been unable to develop a concept that would be sustainable.

“We considered a number of options for how to make the tin, and sites in Smithtown, Kempsey and surrounds, but ultimately, while we loved the idea, we weren’t able to reach a workable outcome,” Mr McIver said.

“I know that many people in the Macleay will share my deep disappointment at this decision, particularly our own team at the factory."

Smithtown has been an important community for Nestlé since the company started manufacturing dairy products there in 1921.

In 1934, the creation of Milo by Thomas Mayne put Smithtown on the map, with Milo going on to be made in 40 countries and sold in more than 100 countries around the world.

The factory has provided steady employment in the region, with many people working at the factory for 25 years and more, some meeting future partners or even seeing the next generation work there! Others have begun their working life in Smithtown and moved on to other roles within the Nestlé world.

Mr McIver said that Nestlé remained firmly committed to playing an active part of the Macleay community.

Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Macleay Argus newsletter here.

Also making the news: