Cadbury’s World has new ownership and it can only mean good things for pass holders as its Merlin Entertainments who will be taking over the day to day operation of the site.
Opened in 1990, Cadbury World is one of the West Midlands’ most popular attractions with 600,000+ people visiting every year to learn about the nation’s favourite chocolate and the heritage of the Cadbury brand.
As part of the agreement, Merlin Entertainments will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the Cadbury World site, its employees, and all operational decisions, as well as holding brand usage rights for Cadbury World in the UK.
Louise Stigant UK MD at Mondelez International said:
“Cadbury World is a truly unique experience and since it first opened its doors in 1990, has been enjoyed by millions of families from across the UK and overseas.
We want to build on the strong foundations we’ve laid so that people can continue to enjoy Cadbury World for generations to come.
As we approach Cadbury’s 200th anniversary, I’m really excited by this partnership.
By working with Merlin Entertainments, we will be able to bring the history and heritage of the Cadbury brand and the joy of chocolate to more and more people.”
Mark Fisher Chief Development Office at Merlin Entertainment said:
As one of the world leaders in location-based entertainment we are delighted that Cadbury World is joining the already strong global network of Merlin attractions.
We have long admired Cadbury as the nation’s favourite chocolate brand and have already successfully worked together across a range of experiential activities and retail spaces in our UK theme parks.
We are now excited to continue the relationship and bring to life the sights, smells and fun experiences that chocolate lovers have come to know and love, but just with the additional helping of some Merlin magic!”
It is currently unknown just when Cadbury’s world will be added to the Merlin pass offering but I’m certainly looking forward to visiting when it becomes available.
A quick timeline:
John Cadbury opened his first shop in Birmingham in 1824 selling hot chocolate and cocoa amongst other items.
His first factory was opened on Crooked Lane in 1831 before moving premises on Bridge Street in 1847.
In 1878 the building of a factory started in Bournville with the first bricks being laid in 1879.
Fast forward to 1919 and Cadbury’s bought Fry’s and then merges with Schweppes 50 years later.
In 2003 Cadbury Schweppes buys Adams and becomes the world’s leading confectionery company but five years later Cadbury’s and Schweppes went their separate ways.
Cadbury’s then became part of Kraft Foods and is now called Mondelēz International, in 2010
Check out what’s on offer at Cadbury’s World HERE
