Does Cadbury Still Make Chocolate in the UK?

Yes, Cadbury still manufacture excellent chocolate in Bournville, Birmingham. The original factory where it all began is still there, as is the village built by the company for its workers. The cricket pitch, school, churches, and the vibrant community that exists around the factory serve as a testament to Cadbury's enduring legacy.

The Original Cadbury Vision

Cadbury's founding in the late 19th century was not just about chocolate production. It was about building a community that reflected the company's values. The original factory was constructed with the intention of providing a better living environment for its workers. The village of Bournville, complete with a school, churches, and a cricket pitch, was a blueprint for what a healthy, worker-friendly community could look like. This was a time when many companies were focused on exploitation, but Cadbury chose a different path.

The Village Built for Workers

The Bournville Village was a model of social and community development. The farm buildings, the cricket pitch, and the school all contributed to creating a self-sufficient and harmonious society. Even today, the village retains its charm and intact structure. The cricket pitch, where many residents could gather for leisure, still exists. The Bournville School continues to educate generations of children, ensuring the community's culture and values are passed down through time. The houses, many still occupied by the original workers and their descendants, stand as a living testimony to Cadbury's mission.

The Factory and Production

Despite the changes that have occurred in the company's ownership and some controversial recipe changes, Cadbury has remained true to its core mission: producing high-quality chocolate. The original factory still stands, but it has undergone several modernizations to meet the demands of 21st-century production. While they may not have mastered the art of dark chocolate, Cadbury's milk chocolate is of exceptional quality. It's often praised for its rich, creamy taste and smooth texture.

The Controversy and Recipe Changes

Following the sale of Cadbury to Kraft Foods in 2010, there were significant changes to the recipes. Some critics claim that these changes compromised the traditional taste and quality that consumers had grown to love. However, despite this controversy, many people still hold Cadbury in high esteem for its milk chocolate. It is often cited as being better than Swiss and Belgian chocolates, a claim that is somewhat contentious due to the EU's restrictions on milk solids and cocoa percentages in these countries.

It's worth noting that while these restrictions might render it difficult to compete directly, they also help to maintain a certain quality standard. European regulations often ensure that chocolate contains a higher proportion of cocoa, which can result in a richer, more authentic taste.

Why Cadbury Stands Out

If you are an American venturing to Europe, you might find that the experience of eating Cadbury chocolate and sampling the local bread is like entering a poem. The unique flavor profiles and the way the chocolate melts in your mouth set it apart from its competitors. This is not just about the taste, but also about the experience of enjoying a piece of history.

Lastly, if you ever fancy a pint in the area, be sure to check out one of the local establishments. The culture and traditions of the region are still very much alive, and a pint of ale in a local pub can be an enjoyable way to experience the local hospitality.

Conclusion

While the company has navigated its share of challenges, Cadbury's commitment to producing high-quality milk chocolate in Bournville remains intact. The village, the factory, and the community are all still there, each a piece of the enduring legacy of this iconic British brand.