Cadbury World is a popular visitor attraction that brings the history and magic of chocolate to life. The attraction offers interactive experiences and educational tours.
Upon arrival, we were greeted with a range of educational and engaging activities that provided valuable insights into the practical aspects of Cadbury’s business operations. These experiences directly related to the Global Operations module included in our curriculum.
This trip served as a powerful reminder of the saying, "Never underestimate the days of humble beginnings." We had an hour’s Educational Talk provide by a Cadbury staff who has been working there for many years. Cadbury, now a subsidiary of Mondelēz International, was founded in 1824 by John Cadbury as a grocery store, where he primarily used a mortar and pestle to produce his drinking chocolate. In 1847, he partnered with his brother Benjamin, who, along with his sons, later joined the business.
Today, Cadbury has evolved into a multinational confectionery powerhouse valued at $36 billion, operating in over 150 countries worldwide. The company exemplifies operational efficiency, possesses a robust supply chain, and implements a competitive strategy that centres on addressing customer needs. This commitment is reflected in their mission statement, which emphasises a focus on helping customers "snack right." Mondelēz aims to provide a diverse range of healthy snack options catering to various consumer segments, prioritising sustainable sourcing practices. They focus on obtaining high-quality raw materials from reliable suppliers in West Africa and actively adapting to changing consumer trends.
Furthermore, Mondelēz boasts impressive employee retention, employing approximately 91,000 individuals across more than 80 countries, many of whom have been with the company for over 35 years. The company refers to its staff as "Angels at Work," a culture that has been nurtured since Cadbury's inception, echoing George Cadbury's belief that "nearly all my money is invested in businesses in which I can truly say the first thought is the welfare of the workforce."
After attending the Educational talk, we embarked on an adventure in the exploration area, where we were greeted with chocolates before exploring the jungle zone filled with beautiful sculptures and games. Following that, we were ushered into a room featuring an interactive display on the history of Cadbury, complete with videos of John, his brother, and his sons sharing the story of this remarkable company. Next, we witnessed skilled chocolatiers at work, crafting and designing chocolates into various shapes, including shoes and cups. We were also treated to an array of chocolate and candy options to suit our preferences. We then observed the process of mixing chocolate and storing it in the fridge until it becomes a finished product. Our journey continued to a room where we had the opportunity to create our own chocolate or write messages using melted chocolate.
Afterward, we indulged in an exquisite 4D chocolate film that lasted seven minutes. Equipped with 3D glasses, we were immersed in the enchanting world of Cadbury treats, leaving us wanting more. Between the cinematic experience and the wonderland adorned with Cadbury history, a large map, confectionary art, and candy sculptures, we were captivated.
Overall, our visit to Cadbury World greatly enhanced our understanding of Global Operations, shedding light on the intricate connections among various principles of operations management. It reinforced the idea that quality management is fundamental to a successful business, influencing every aspect of its foundation. While we gained valuable educational insights, we will also cherish the delightful experiences we had at Cadbury World.
Author: Precious Ohiri-Leghemo