The Fantale, one of Australia’s most iconic lollies, is being discontinued after nearly a century.
Manufacturer Nestle made the shock announcement on Tuesday that the chocolate covered caramels, famed for movie star stories on the wrappers, would stop being producing from next month.
The decision follows declining sales and the need for significant and expensive upgrades to continue to make Fantales at Nestlé’s Melbourne confectionery factory, the company said.
“We know our decision to stop making Fantales will be sad news for many people,” Nestlé Oceania Confectionery General Manager Andrew Lawrey said in a statement.
“Many of us grew up with Fantales and have fond memories of them.
“Despite the sense of nostalgia Fantales evoke, unfortunately people simply aren’t buying them as often as they used to.”
He said the equipment needed to make Fantales needs significant investment.
“It’s become increasingly difficult to get the parts we need to maintain it, and with declining sales, replacing it isn’t viable,” Mr Lawrey said.
Fantales were first created in 1930, when the Golden age of Hollywood had people flocking to the movies.
To ride the wave, the chewy caramels were wrapped with ‘fan tales’ of actors and musicians on its wrappers.
The New York Times once declared it Australia’s most defining lolly.
“While investment in the future of Fantales is not sustainable, we’re continuing to invest in our other Allen’s lollies, including fan favourites such as Snakes Alive, Party Mix and Minties,” Mr Lawrey said.
Fantales were first created in 1930 – and for generations the brand has been synonymous with the movies, with its famous ‘fan tales’ of actors and musicians on its wrappers.
The last production of Fantales will be in mid-July, and Fantales will be available for sale while stocks last.
Nestle said all staff from the Fantales production line will move to other roles within the factory.