An Unforgettable Trip to Cadbury World!

Year 10 and 11 – Sweet Experience at Cadbury World

On 3 and 10 October, Years 10 and 11 GCSE Business students from QEH had the exciting opportunity to visit Cadbury World, a unique visitor attraction in Birmingham that blends chocolate-themed fun with valuable educational insights. The trip was not only a chance for students to indulge in their love for chocolate but also an important learning experience in the four main departments within any successful multi national corporation.

Marketing Presentation and Product Development Insights

As part of the educational program, the students attended a specially organised marketing presentation aimed at giving them real-world knowledge of how businesses, like Cadbury, operate in highly competitive markets. The presentation focused on the importance of new product development (NPD) and its role in maintaining a brand’s market position. Students learned that Cadbury, a global leader in the confectionery industry, is continually innovating its product lines to keep up with changing consumer preferences.

One of the key takeaways was the significance of upcoming product launches, planned for 2025, as part of Cadbury’s growth strategy. These new products are designed to meet the demands of consumers who are increasingly looking for healthier, more sustainable options without compromising on taste. The students gained an understanding of how critical it is for businesses to continuously evolve, introduce fresh products, and align with current trends to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced market.

Reputation as a Top UK Employer

During the visit, the students were also informed about Cadbury’s long standing reputation as one of the top employers in the UK. Founded in 1824 by John Cadbury, the company has always been known for its forward-thinking employment practices. Historically, the Cadbury family championed progressive worker benefits, which included fair wages, housing for employees, and a strong focus on social welfare. Today, even as part of a global corporation, Cadbury continues to be regarded as a great place to work, recognized for providing excellent opportunities for professional development and fostering a positive work culture.

The visit highlighted how Cadbury’s commitment to its workforce plays a major role in maintaining its brand reputation. The company invests heavily in employee training and career progression, offering a wide range of roles across different sectors, including marketing, research and development, and manufacturing. This focus on employee well-being and development helps Cadbury to attract and retain top talent, maintaining its status as a leader in the UK employment market.

Finance – the Impact of the Mondelēz Takeover

In 2010, Cadbury was acquired by Mondelēz International, an American multinational food and beverage company. This takeover had a significant impact on Cadbury’s operations and finances, which was a topic of discussion during the trip. While there was some initial concern over the effect of foreign ownership on such an iconic British brand, the financial backing provided by Mondelēz has allowed Cadbury to expand its global reach and invest in new product lines.

The acquisition gave Cadbury access to greater resources, enabling it to enhance its research and development capabilities, particularly in the area of product innovation. Mondelēz’s global distribution network also helped Cadbury increase its market share in emerging markets, including Asia and Latin America. However, students also learned about the challenges that come with being part of a large multinational corporation, such as navigating complex financial pressures and balancing the need to maintain a local identity while operating on a global scale.

The takeover also had financial implications for the company, with increased shareholder expectations and a greater focus on profitability. Despite some challenges, Cadbury has managed to continue its tradition of producing high-quality products while expanding its international presence, largely thanks to the financial muscle provided by Mondelēz.

The Evolution of Chocolate Production

A key part of the day was multi- media multi sensory demonstrations that explained the production and operations behind Cadbury’s famous chocolates. Students learned how the production process has changed dramatically over the years, evolving from manual, small-scale operations to today’s highly automated and efficient manufacturing systems. In the early days, much of the chocolate-making process was done by hand, but technological advancements have transformed the industry.

The tour included a look at how modern production techniques have improved the quality and consistency of Cadbury products. Automated machinery now handles the bulk of production, allowing for large-scale manufacturing while maintaining the high standards for which Cadbury is known. This evolution in production has also enabled Cadbury to reduce costs and improve efficiency, which has been crucial in maintaining its competitive edge in the market.

As part of the day, students were able to see the supply chain in action, from the sourcing of cocoa beans to the final packaging of products. They learned about the global nature of Cadbury’s supply chain, with cocoa sourced from countries like Ghana and the Ivory Coast, and how Cadbury is committed to ethical sourcing through its partnerships with programs like Fairtrade and the Cocoa Life Initiative. This ensures that Cadbury not only meets consumer demand but also contributes to sustainable and ethical practices within the industry.

A Valuable Educational Experience and very popular factory shop!

The visit to Cadbury World was a fantastic opportunity for Year 10 and 11 students to see how a large, successful business operates. From learning about marketing strategies and new product development to understanding the financial impacts of global ownership and seeing first-hand how production has evolved, students gained valuable insights that they can apply to their studies.

Mr A Donald, Head of Economics & Business