History of Cadbury

The Cadbury story is a fascinating study of industrial and social development, covering well over a century and a half. It shows how a small family business developed into an international company combining the most sophisticated technology with the highest standards of quality, technical skills and innovation.

A one-man business, opened in 1824 by a young Quaker, John Cadbury, in Bull Street Birmingham, was to be the foundation of Cadbury Limited, now one of the world's largest chocolate producers. By 1831 the business had changed from a grocery shop and John Cadbury had become a manufacturer of drinking chocolate and cocoa, the start of the Cadbury manufacturing business as it is known today.

The leader in the UK confectionery market *, Cadbury Limited is the confectionery division of Cadbury Schweppes plc, a major force in the confectionery and soft drinks international market. Quality has been the focus of the Cadbury business from the very beginning, as generations have worked to produce chocolate with the taste, smoothness and snap characteristic of Cadbury chocolate.

This section features the entire history of Cadbury Limited: from humble roots in 1824 to a market leader in the UK confectionery market today. Follow the progress of the company through the years and find out about the brands, the factory and the history of the Cadbury Family. Choose a category of interest from the menu on the left and have fun exploring.

*IRI  Y/E 29/12/2002