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A History of Cadbury
When John Cadbury came to Birmingham in 1824, he sold tea, coffee and drinking chocolate in a small shop on Bull Street. Drinking chocolate was considered a healthy alternative to alcohol, something Cadbury, a Quaker, was keen to encourage.
In 1879, the Cadburys moved to Bournville and created their ‘factory in a garden’ – an unprecedented move. It is now ironic that today’s Bournville is surrounded by that urban sprawl the Cadburys were so keen to get away from.
This book looks at some of the social impact this company has had since its inception, both on the chocolate and cocoa business in general and on the community at large, both within and without the firm of Cadbury.
In 2024, Cadbury's will be celebrating 200 years of the first store opening. This is the story of how the company began, how it grew, and how they diversified in order to survive.
In 1879, the Cadburys moved to Bournville and created their ‘factory in a garden’ – an unprecedented move. It is now ironic that today’s Bournville is surrounded by that urban sprawl the Cadburys were so keen to get away from.
This book looks at some of the social impact this company has had since its inception, both on the chocolate and cocoa business in general and on the community at large, both within and without the firm of Cadbury.
In 2024, Cadbury's will be celebrating 200 years of the first store opening. This is the story of how the company began, how it grew, and how they diversified in order to survive.
- GenresNonfictionHistory
208 pages, Hardcover
First published November 30, 2018
7 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Diane Wordsworth
116 books9 followersDiane Wordsworth was born and bred in Solihull in the West Midlands when it was still Warwickshire.
Her work has appeared worldwide. Primarily a broadcast journalist, she also edits and proofreads books and magazines.
She started to write for magazines in 1985 and became a full time freelance photo-journalist in 1996. In 1998 she became sub-editor for several education trade magazines and started to edit classroom resources, text books and non-fiction books.
In 2004, Diane moved from Solihull to Yorkshire, where she edited an in-house magazine for an international steel company for six years.
She now lives in with her husband, and still edits and writes on a freelance basis.
Diane is currently exploring an A to Z of Yorkshire with her husband, Ian.
Her work has appeared worldwide. Primarily a broadcast journalist, she also edits and proofreads books and magazines.
She started to write for magazines in 1985 and became a full time freelance photo-journalist in 1996. In 1998 she became sub-editor for several education trade magazines and started to edit classroom resources, text books and non-fiction books.
In 2004, Diane moved from Solihull to Yorkshire, where she edited an in-house magazine for an international steel company for six years.
She now lives in with her husband, and still edits and writes on a freelance basis.
Diane is currently exploring an A to Z of Yorkshire with her husband, Ian.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 27, 2019
Disclaimer: ARC via Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I know there are people out there who do not like chocolate. I’m not taking about those people who are allegoric to chocolate, but people who simply do not like chocolate. I know these people exist in some mythic realm that also houses those people who do not read books. But I really do not want to meet those people.
This book is about chocolate and, therefore, it is yummy. But even if you are one of those people who doesn’t like chocolate this is a book that you should enjoy.
In the United States, Cadbury is most likely famous primary for its Cadbury Eggs – or for the commercials for those Cadbury Crème eggs, but the company is actually famous for much more.
Like Flake. I mean, Flake is terrific. Or Roses, who doesn’t like Roses?
Okay fine, but even if you lack taste, this book is delicious.
Wordsworth traces the company’s history from its start in Bull Street in Birmingham in the 1820s to the most recent corporate sale with Kraft. In 1824, John Cadbury with a stake from his father, a draper, opened a tea shop that also sold cocoa beans. The Cadbury family was a Quaker family, and John Cadbury was also a temperance advocate, which was one of the reasons he put forward chocolate as an alternative to drinking. (He obviously never had a Guinness and chocolate milkshake).
Eventually the firm was passed down to his sons Richard and George who saved the business by expanding it and refining it – in part because of Dutch tech that allowed for the making of better chocolate.
However, it is important to note that the Cadbury family was far different than many in today’s heavy capitalist society where workers are being replaced with machines or losing wages and benefits. The Cadbury family actually seemed to have cares for their workers. What is most surprising is the emphasis on health and learning that the firm gave its employees. The workers had sports field, class, doctors, and dentists. It is turn that at some point there were some strange rules – like the ones about married women – but considering the overall care and concern that the family extended to employees. Wordsworth does an excellent job of making this attitude clear and connecting it to the family’s Quaker’s beliefs. She also discusses the two ways such care could be seen – Patriarchal or patriarchist.
The emphasis of this book, therefore, is on what Cadbury was and what in some ways was lost in the later mergers and buy outs. The later mergers of the firm while dealt with are not dealt with in depth. This leads to more of a sense of loss when Kraft enters the picture. It is impossible to think of a big business being so vested in the success of their employees on such a level.
In part, one does wish there was more analysis about the changes or differences. To be fair, though, it is entirely possible that such a criticism could be unwarranted. Wordsworth seems to have been contracted for a slim volume so the cutting of information must have been difficult. So, if it is a fault, it is more to do with contract. Wordsworth makes up for a bit of the gloss at the end by including a further reading list. She also includes several documents – such as testimony from a libel trial – and interviews with employees.
I know there are people out there who do not like chocolate. I’m not taking about those people who are allegoric to chocolate, but people who simply do not like chocolate. I know these people exist in some mythic realm that also houses those people who do not read books. But I really do not want to meet those people.
This book is about chocolate and, therefore, it is yummy. But even if you are one of those people who doesn’t like chocolate this is a book that you should enjoy.
In the United States, Cadbury is most likely famous primary for its Cadbury Eggs – or for the commercials for those Cadbury Crème eggs, but the company is actually famous for much more.
Like Flake. I mean, Flake is terrific. Or Roses, who doesn’t like Roses?
Okay fine, but even if you lack taste, this book is delicious.
Wordsworth traces the company’s history from its start in Bull Street in Birmingham in the 1820s to the most recent corporate sale with Kraft. In 1824, John Cadbury with a stake from his father, a draper, opened a tea shop that also sold cocoa beans. The Cadbury family was a Quaker family, and John Cadbury was also a temperance advocate, which was one of the reasons he put forward chocolate as an alternative to drinking. (He obviously never had a Guinness and chocolate milkshake).
Eventually the firm was passed down to his sons Richard and George who saved the business by expanding it and refining it – in part because of Dutch tech that allowed for the making of better chocolate.
However, it is important to note that the Cadbury family was far different than many in today’s heavy capitalist society where workers are being replaced with machines or losing wages and benefits. The Cadbury family actually seemed to have cares for their workers. What is most surprising is the emphasis on health and learning that the firm gave its employees. The workers had sports field, class, doctors, and dentists. It is turn that at some point there were some strange rules – like the ones about married women – but considering the overall care and concern that the family extended to employees. Wordsworth does an excellent job of making this attitude clear and connecting it to the family’s Quaker’s beliefs. She also discusses the two ways such care could be seen – Patriarchal or patriarchist.
The emphasis of this book, therefore, is on what Cadbury was and what in some ways was lost in the later mergers and buy outs. The later mergers of the firm while dealt with are not dealt with in depth. This leads to more of a sense of loss when Kraft enters the picture. It is impossible to think of a big business being so vested in the success of their employees on such a level.
In part, one does wish there was more analysis about the changes or differences. To be fair, though, it is entirely possible that such a criticism could be unwarranted. Wordsworth seems to have been contracted for a slim volume so the cutting of information must have been difficult. So, if it is a fault, it is more to do with contract. Wordsworth makes up for a bit of the gloss at the end by including a further reading list. She also includes several documents – such as testimony from a libel trial – and interviews with employees.
April 18, 2019
I received this book through the publisher via Netgalley.
Cadbury chocolates are a source of fond memories for me, especially my beloved Cadbury cream eggs each spring. Therefore, I was keenly interested in finding out more about the company behind my childhood delights--but also approached the book with a measure of caution. Would this be mere company propaganda, and/or a dry and boring read?
While the book is positive about Cadbury, it also doesn't shy away from old and new controversies--and never is it boring. I found it to be fascinating all the way through, with the text throughout embellished by great photographs and Cadbury product artwork. I only recently read that the chocolate industry in the northern British city of York was started by Quakers in the 19th century--and lo and behold, Cadbury was likewise started by a Quaker family. They brought their values to their business as well, which in many ways was positive--providing fair wages, reasonable work hours, and compassion that seems almost strange in the era, such as letting female workers wait in a heated dressing room and then signalling them when their train arrived. Cadbury even created its own company town, Bournville. However, there were also restrictions such as not letting married women work full time--home was where they belonged--and enforcing prayers and swim lessons for all employees.
The Cadburys were heavily involved in the abolition of the slave trade, but rightly endured some criticism in the early years of the 20th century when they discovered that the native labor on their cocoa plantations in San Thome and Principe could only be described as slavery. The firm tried to follow proper channels to remedy the situation--going through the Portuguese government--only to be outright lied to. Unfortunately, this only became evident after years had passed.
The book provides actual documentation from the time period on this episode, as well as many fascinating descriptions of working for Cadbury, as told by decades-long employees. It also talks briefly about the recent aggressive takeover by the American company Kraft and how the assets have since been divided and altered.
I recommend this book not just for people who've enjoyed Cadbury's products, but anyone with an interest in 19th and early 20th-century history and labor practices. Cadbury did a lot right and that's undoubtedly a major reason why they are still around today.
Cadbury chocolates are a source of fond memories for me, especially my beloved Cadbury cream eggs each spring. Therefore, I was keenly interested in finding out more about the company behind my childhood delights--but also approached the book with a measure of caution. Would this be mere company propaganda, and/or a dry and boring read?
While the book is positive about Cadbury, it also doesn't shy away from old and new controversies--and never is it boring. I found it to be fascinating all the way through, with the text throughout embellished by great photographs and Cadbury product artwork. I only recently read that the chocolate industry in the northern British city of York was started by Quakers in the 19th century--and lo and behold, Cadbury was likewise started by a Quaker family. They brought their values to their business as well, which in many ways was positive--providing fair wages, reasonable work hours, and compassion that seems almost strange in the era, such as letting female workers wait in a heated dressing room and then signalling them when their train arrived. Cadbury even created its own company town, Bournville. However, there were also restrictions such as not letting married women work full time--home was where they belonged--and enforcing prayers and swim lessons for all employees.
The Cadburys were heavily involved in the abolition of the slave trade, but rightly endured some criticism in the early years of the 20th century when they discovered that the native labor on their cocoa plantations in San Thome and Principe could only be described as slavery. The firm tried to follow proper channels to remedy the situation--going through the Portuguese government--only to be outright lied to. Unfortunately, this only became evident after years had passed.
The book provides actual documentation from the time period on this episode, as well as many fascinating descriptions of working for Cadbury, as told by decades-long employees. It also talks briefly about the recent aggressive takeover by the American company Kraft and how the assets have since been divided and altered.
I recommend this book not just for people who've enjoyed Cadbury's products, but anyone with an interest in 19th and early 20th-century history and labor practices. Cadbury did a lot right and that's undoubtedly a major reason why they are still around today.
January 4, 2020
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I thought that this was a really great insight in to the Cadbury family, their history and how the business has developed and grown since it was set up back in 1824 as a single tea shop on Bull Street in Birmingham by John Cadbury.
I liked that the book introduced the significant family members that were involved in the Company and its set up, and subsequent running. The family had a massive impact on the local area and the community and showed a genuine interest in the needs of their employees, both from a work life balance point of view though to health concerns, which was unprecedented for that time, and indeed is not always taken up by Companies being run today – they really were trend setters.
The book also talks about the different products and the development of the different packages, and how they managed through wars at the start of the last century and the impact it had on their production, their employees, and their customers.
During The Great War, a large proportion of their employees enlisted to join the British Armed Forces and they held their jobs open for them to return too. They also turned two of their factories over to be used as hospitals.
During World War II, parts of the Bournville factory were turned over to war work, producing milling machines and seats for fighter aircraft – they really played their parts. Workers ploughed their football fields to plant crops too. As chocolate was regarded as an essential food, it was placed under government supervision for the entire war, they did alter the make-up of their famous Dairy Milk bar after milk was rationed. The wartime rationing of chocolate ended in 1950, and normal production resumed.
The author also discusses the recent take over where the Cadbury business was bought by Kraft Foods, now Mondelēz International, Inc. who took them over in 2010.
The book was also a step back in time for me as I will always remember going for a visit round Cadbury’s World with school, I was so excited as I knew you got free chocolate as you went round, but after the first few rooms the smell of the warm chocolate made me feel nauseous – I always used to say how could you work with chocolate all day and not want to eat it all – I had my answer!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, it was a good insight in to how Cadbury shaped the local area and community too, it was well written and an enjoyable read too, the author has clearly done an awful lot of research and knows her topic. Highly recommended and a great addition to my social history collection!
I thought that this was a really great insight in to the Cadbury family, their history and how the business has developed and grown since it was set up back in 1824 as a single tea shop on Bull Street in Birmingham by John Cadbury.
I liked that the book introduced the significant family members that were involved in the Company and its set up, and subsequent running. The family had a massive impact on the local area and the community and showed a genuine interest in the needs of their employees, both from a work life balance point of view though to health concerns, which was unprecedented for that time, and indeed is not always taken up by Companies being run today – they really were trend setters.
The book also talks about the different products and the development of the different packages, and how they managed through wars at the start of the last century and the impact it had on their production, their employees, and their customers.
During The Great War, a large proportion of their employees enlisted to join the British Armed Forces and they held their jobs open for them to return too. They also turned two of their factories over to be used as hospitals.
During World War II, parts of the Bournville factory were turned over to war work, producing milling machines and seats for fighter aircraft – they really played their parts. Workers ploughed their football fields to plant crops too. As chocolate was regarded as an essential food, it was placed under government supervision for the entire war, they did alter the make-up of their famous Dairy Milk bar after milk was rationed. The wartime rationing of chocolate ended in 1950, and normal production resumed.
The author also discusses the recent take over where the Cadbury business was bought by Kraft Foods, now Mondelēz International, Inc. who took them over in 2010.
The book was also a step back in time for me as I will always remember going for a visit round Cadbury’s World with school, I was so excited as I knew you got free chocolate as you went round, but after the first few rooms the smell of the warm chocolate made me feel nauseous – I always used to say how could you work with chocolate all day and not want to eat it all – I had my answer!
It is 4 stars from me for this one, it was a good insight in to how Cadbury shaped the local area and community too, it was well written and an enjoyable read too, the author has clearly done an awful lot of research and knows her topic. Highly recommended and a great addition to my social history collection!
January 10, 2025
I love chocolate and I love history so it was no surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this one!
I would recommend it to anyone. Those who are fascinated with historical accounts presenting the inception of companies, the evolution of business practices among the 19th and 20th centuries, confectionary in the age of industrial revolution, and of course, anyone who enjoys chocolate would particularly be enlightened.
I would like to thank Pen and Sword for providing me with an advance reader copy via access to the galley for free through the NetGalley program.
The Story
The author, Diane Wordsworth, gave great insight into the development of the Cadbury company through a chronological telling of events.
I really appreciated the thoroughness of the material covered.
Learning about the historical perception of chocolate itself and the creation of product was fascinating. From boilers to produce steam, weighing chocolate by hand, moulds, the shaker, transportation, the setting the chocolate on stone slabs in a cellar, the boxing of chocolate, I found myself engrossed in the process of it all.
I also appreciated the discussion of the foundational company culture and values concerning the welfare of their employees. Fair wages for factory workers, as well as the offering of occupational medicine, apprenticeships, and vocational training through an employment package really helped to define the ethos and build a sense of community which was a unique concept among companies at the time.
The exploration of working conditions as they relate to business philosophy was an important issue to cover in this book. With support for the abolition of slave trade and labor in the Portuguese islands of cocoa harvesting, this content would make an interesting volume in and of itself. "In these professedly enlightened days, commercial progress cannot well be considered apart from moral progress; we want to know not only how work is done but who and what they are who do it."
The company story was told with great context. Significant topics of the time such as women’s suffrage movement and the impact of wartime were mentioned. With employees called to service and in the face of ingredient shortages due to imposed restrictions on the transportation of cocoa, a diversification of the company had also included the manufacturing of dried vegetables, biscuits, and fruit pulp. Other contributions in meeting the needs of the military through craftsmanship included part making for guns and aeroplanes which I found intriguing.
I would be interested to see an extension of this book to include additional details of the changes experienced in the industrial age as it relates to a deeper look into confectionery factory life and the process of chocolate-making.
I can only imagine the difficulty in organizing and deciding upon the inclusion or exclusion of content for this or a subsequent piece since the manufacturing of chocolate is so multifaceted.
I'd also be curious about additional material with the incorporation of the future of the company in reference to an entrepreneurial endeavor by Cadbury's great-grandson, James, who has since started a company called Love Cocoa. The characteristics of these products include being natural and free-from palm oil and embraces environmental conservation efforts through a partnership with the Rainforest Foundation.
The Writing
Excerpts of article letters, testimonials, and the photos, illustrations, and pictorial designs really enhanced my enjoyment of the book.
Illustrations
From the beautiful factory grounds to a woman carefully painting the classic logo on a box of chocolate, I really valued the inclusion of such a gallery of historical images within the book.
The Writing
I think this would make a great gift and coffee table book for your home, office, or business place.
Blog post
I would recommend it to anyone. Those who are fascinated with historical accounts presenting the inception of companies, the evolution of business practices among the 19th and 20th centuries, confectionary in the age of industrial revolution, and of course, anyone who enjoys chocolate would particularly be enlightened.
I would like to thank Pen and Sword for providing me with an advance reader copy via access to the galley for free through the NetGalley program.
The Story
The author, Diane Wordsworth, gave great insight into the development of the Cadbury company through a chronological telling of events.
I really appreciated the thoroughness of the material covered.
Learning about the historical perception of chocolate itself and the creation of product was fascinating. From boilers to produce steam, weighing chocolate by hand, moulds, the shaker, transportation, the setting the chocolate on stone slabs in a cellar, the boxing of chocolate, I found myself engrossed in the process of it all.
I also appreciated the discussion of the foundational company culture and values concerning the welfare of their employees. Fair wages for factory workers, as well as the offering of occupational medicine, apprenticeships, and vocational training through an employment package really helped to define the ethos and build a sense of community which was a unique concept among companies at the time.
The exploration of working conditions as they relate to business philosophy was an important issue to cover in this book. With support for the abolition of slave trade and labor in the Portuguese islands of cocoa harvesting, this content would make an interesting volume in and of itself. "In these professedly enlightened days, commercial progress cannot well be considered apart from moral progress; we want to know not only how work is done but who and what they are who do it."
The company story was told with great context. Significant topics of the time such as women’s suffrage movement and the impact of wartime were mentioned. With employees called to service and in the face of ingredient shortages due to imposed restrictions on the transportation of cocoa, a diversification of the company had also included the manufacturing of dried vegetables, biscuits, and fruit pulp. Other contributions in meeting the needs of the military through craftsmanship included part making for guns and aeroplanes which I found intriguing.
I would be interested to see an extension of this book to include additional details of the changes experienced in the industrial age as it relates to a deeper look into confectionery factory life and the process of chocolate-making.
I can only imagine the difficulty in organizing and deciding upon the inclusion or exclusion of content for this or a subsequent piece since the manufacturing of chocolate is so multifaceted.
I'd also be curious about additional material with the incorporation of the future of the company in reference to an entrepreneurial endeavor by Cadbury's great-grandson, James, who has since started a company called Love Cocoa. The characteristics of these products include being natural and free-from palm oil and embraces environmental conservation efforts through a partnership with the Rainforest Foundation.
The Writing
Excerpts of article letters, testimonials, and the photos, illustrations, and pictorial designs really enhanced my enjoyment of the book.
Illustrations
From the beautiful factory grounds to a woman carefully painting the classic logo on a box of chocolate, I really valued the inclusion of such a gallery of historical images within the book.
The Writing
I think this would make a great gift and coffee table book for your home, office, or business place.
Blog post
March 30, 2019
After just purchasing a rather large quantity of their deliciously alluring creme eggs the timing of my reading of this book documenting the history of the two hundred years of the Cadbury firm in all its various manifestations could not have been more apposite. As Diane Wordsworth points out there is so much material comprising of economics, social and political history together with biography and business organisational study to be covered that the book can only give just a brief look into the remarkable story of both the company and its visionary owners. Many of the subjects covered would warrant books devoted to them in their own right.
Packed with photographs we learn how from a small shop in Bull Street Birmingham in 1824 Cadbury moved in 1879 to a new site outside of the city where Bournville (the name was chosen to imply to the public a connection to France the home of fine chocolate) became a model village and indeed even in 2003 it was voted by The Joseph Rowntree Foundation as "one of the nicest places to live in Britain" .
The book covers not only the development of its products, the packaging and advertising but just as interestingly documents the paternalistic and for the time enlightened approach that this family of Quaker owners adopted towards their workforce. There are chapters devoted to education and training, sport and recreation, workers welfare together with the various pension and savings schemes provided. We also learn how Bournville was in the vanguard of the "New Garden City" movement. Of course things change and since 2010 Cadbury has been wholly owned by Mondelez International (originally Kraft Foods). It seems light years away from the original opening of that one shop in Bull Street.
A fascinating read that delves into a multitude of different themes from chocolate making to the slave trade, from housing provision to healthcare. Certainly well worth a read perhaps being accompanied by the consumption of one of their products.
Packed with photographs we learn how from a small shop in Bull Street Birmingham in 1824 Cadbury moved in 1879 to a new site outside of the city where Bournville (the name was chosen to imply to the public a connection to France the home of fine chocolate) became a model village and indeed even in 2003 it was voted by The Joseph Rowntree Foundation as "one of the nicest places to live in Britain" .
The book covers not only the development of its products, the packaging and advertising but just as interestingly documents the paternalistic and for the time enlightened approach that this family of Quaker owners adopted towards their workforce. There are chapters devoted to education and training, sport and recreation, workers welfare together with the various pension and savings schemes provided. We also learn how Bournville was in the vanguard of the "New Garden City" movement. Of course things change and since 2010 Cadbury has been wholly owned by Mondelez International (originally Kraft Foods). It seems light years away from the original opening of that one shop in Bull Street.
A fascinating read that delves into a multitude of different themes from chocolate making to the slave trade, from housing provision to healthcare. Certainly well worth a read perhaps being accompanied by the consumption of one of their products.
April 10, 2019
This book is a chocolate lovers dream!! After all who doesn’t love chocolate? If there is people out there in the big wide world who choose not to like chocolate, then they are definitely not amongst my sphere…I cannot think of anything worse then disliking chocolate! How can you not like Cadbury’s Roses? Or Dairy Milk? Surely that is a mortal sin? Anyway enough of my waffling, I need to tell you about this wonderfully delicious book – a book which was consumed along with – yes, you got it; Chocolate!
So for all those – in opinion – odd people out there who have a thing against chocolate and I am not talking about people with allergies or diabetics then maybe this not be the book for you, but saying that this is all about the glorious history of the firm – and not just the sweet stuff!
The book documents the entire history of this much loved company, I think everyone has fond memories associated with Cadbury chocolate and it was fascinating to read into it’s history. From it’s small start as a tea shop in Bull Street, Birmingham set up by John Cadbury in 1824, John was from a Quaker family and he was also an advocate for temperance which is why he chose to go down the chocolate path – and aren’t we all pleased he did? His tea shop was a hit especially as he sold hot chocolate but it wasn’t until the firm was passed to his son’s that the Cadbury name was really established. His son’s Richard and George had real vision, they saw an opening in the market, they knew with a little tweaking that their business could be a success – honestly these lads had smart heads on their shoulders.
What I particularly like about this book is that Ms Wordsworth really educates the reader not just in the history of the firm itself, but with the people. From reader this it is obvious that the Cadbury’s unlike other employer’s at the time genuinely cared for their workers’, they cared about the workers needs and most important they genuinely cared for their workers health and helping them progress in life and I found that far more fascinating then the history of the business.
Ms Wordsworth does a wonderful job at walking the reader through the many changes in the Cadbury history, right from those very early days, right to Cadbury’s lofty heights and back again to now and how it has changed with being apart of Kraft. The writer has obviously done considerable research and that passion for the subject comes through her writing.
This is a great little read and highly recommend not just for those who love their chocolate but also it is a fascinating insight into a family who strove to create a business that would last throughout the years.
So for all those – in opinion – odd people out there who have a thing against chocolate and I am not talking about people with allergies or diabetics then maybe this not be the book for you, but saying that this is all about the glorious history of the firm – and not just the sweet stuff!
The book documents the entire history of this much loved company, I think everyone has fond memories associated with Cadbury chocolate and it was fascinating to read into it’s history. From it’s small start as a tea shop in Bull Street, Birmingham set up by John Cadbury in 1824, John was from a Quaker family and he was also an advocate for temperance which is why he chose to go down the chocolate path – and aren’t we all pleased he did? His tea shop was a hit especially as he sold hot chocolate but it wasn’t until the firm was passed to his son’s that the Cadbury name was really established. His son’s Richard and George had real vision, they saw an opening in the market, they knew with a little tweaking that their business could be a success – honestly these lads had smart heads on their shoulders.
What I particularly like about this book is that Ms Wordsworth really educates the reader not just in the history of the firm itself, but with the people. From reader this it is obvious that the Cadbury’s unlike other employer’s at the time genuinely cared for their workers’, they cared about the workers needs and most important they genuinely cared for their workers health and helping them progress in life and I found that far more fascinating then the history of the business.
Ms Wordsworth does a wonderful job at walking the reader through the many changes in the Cadbury history, right from those very early days, right to Cadbury’s lofty heights and back again to now and how it has changed with being apart of Kraft. The writer has obviously done considerable research and that passion for the subject comes through her writing.
This is a great little read and highly recommend not just for those who love their chocolate but also it is a fascinating insight into a family who strove to create a business that would last throughout the years.
April 11, 2019
When you head the Cadbury family name do you immediately think of chocolate? You’re not alone, and the really do have wonderful chocolate. But there’s so much more to their history than chocolate and am pleasantly surprised that I learned so much by reading this book. I am truly impressed by the Cadbury family, and not just for their chocolate.
John Cadbury founded his shop in 1824, with funds that his father gave him. In fact he opened it up right next door to his father’s drapery shop that his brother was now running. Originally he carried coffee, tea, and cocoa beans, with the tea and coffee being the primary business. Over time he came to make drinking chocolate and seemed to corner the market on breakfast beverages.
It wasn’t until later that his sons became involved and turned Cadbury into what we know the 195 year old company to be today. All of that, in and of itself is impressive, but it’s the history around how the Cadbury family cared for their employees and their own families that truly impressed me. They may have been one of the first companies that took “Think globally, act locally” to heart with the programs and benefits they provided for employees.
This book offers so much more than what you would expect. it’s not just about chocolate and you’l love it. If you’re a chocolate lover, you’ll love this book. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love this book. If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel good as you read about how people help others, you’ll love this book. Definitely a great book to add to your must read book list!
John Cadbury founded his shop in 1824, with funds that his father gave him. In fact he opened it up right next door to his father’s drapery shop that his brother was now running. Originally he carried coffee, tea, and cocoa beans, with the tea and coffee being the primary business. Over time he came to make drinking chocolate and seemed to corner the market on breakfast beverages.
It wasn’t until later that his sons became involved and turned Cadbury into what we know the 195 year old company to be today. All of that, in and of itself is impressive, but it’s the history around how the Cadbury family cared for their employees and their own families that truly impressed me. They may have been one of the first companies that took “Think globally, act locally” to heart with the programs and benefits they provided for employees.
This book offers so much more than what you would expect. it’s not just about chocolate and you’l love it. If you’re a chocolate lover, you’ll love this book. If you’re a history buff, you’ll love this book. If you’re looking for a book that will make you feel good as you read about how people help others, you’ll love this book. Definitely a great book to add to your must read book list!
February 18, 2019
Since February is the Valentine month, I thought a history of world famous chocolate maker Cadbury was appropriate. My first encounter with Cadbury was when the crème-filled eggs hit the U.S. market and I thought I had been transported to chocolate heaven. I had no idea the company had such a long history. Diane Wordsworth has written a very approachable narrative of the Cadbury family and the development of the company. I was very pleased to read about the employment reforms that the family introduced for their workers over the years. Cadbury’s, like many companies, faced setbacks during the World Wars and takeovers battles over the years but they continue to produce memorable chocolates. This is a great story and well-written.
April 16, 2019
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and the publishers and I am giving an honest and voluntary review.
I was very lucky to receive this book as a gift so I was hoping that it would contain more information then the other two books I have read on this subject. and I was not disappointed in the least. Chocolate is one of my favourite foods and it seems that the history of how the Cadbury family began the in the making of this wonderful food was a very adventurous one. The aroma, the taste and all the processes that were developed by the cadbury family to produce the wonderful chocolate that we enjoy today was well worth a read and I must admit it urged me out to the supermarket to purchase a purple wrapped block of Cadbury's finest.
I was very lucky to receive this book as a gift so I was hoping that it would contain more information then the other two books I have read on this subject. and I was not disappointed in the least. Chocolate is one of my favourite foods and it seems that the history of how the Cadbury family began the in the making of this wonderful food was a very adventurous one. The aroma, the taste and all the processes that were developed by the cadbury family to produce the wonderful chocolate that we enjoy today was well worth a read and I must admit it urged me out to the supermarket to purchase a purple wrapped block of Cadbury's finest.
June 3, 2019
An interesting and fun read about chocolate and the Cadbury family legacy. This is an in depth read and kept my attention from beginning to end. I highly recommend this to all chocolate lovers with a curiosity abouth Cadbury, you won't be disappointed. I thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 3, 2019
A History of Cadbury
by Sir Dominic Cadbury & Diane Wordsworth
due 5-31-2019
Pen & Sword
4.0 / 5.0
In 1824, after spending a year in London studying retailing and tea dealing, John Cadbury joined the family business,by starting his own business as a warehouse in Birmingham, England selling Fine Teas, Spices, Coffee and Cocoa. The stores biggest seller was tea. Slowly the process of extracting butter from the chocolate, making it edible and naming it Cadbury´s Cocoa Essence. By 1842, Cadbury had more than 30 different types of drinking chocolate and cocoa; by 1897 they had manufactured the first chocolate bar.
The Cadburys believed a happy and healthy worker is more productive and took measures to ensure his workers stayed healthy and were one one of the first to offer health and dental care, a pension fund, and eventually built entire villages, with playgrounds, schools, and churches and by 1930 had 2000 homes he gave to employees. The Cadburys loved the idea of integration and would build expensive homes next door to a low income property. One of the most important things was Johns Quaker beliefs and believed in abstinence, promoting chocolate as an alternative to alcohol.
As time went on, some began to see Cadburys vision of a village not as an inclusive and healthy idea, but as bigoted, controlling and patriarchal. Workers were forced to attend educational classes, had to learn to swim and participate in sports. Only single women were employed and morning prayers were mandatory and every morning. I guess its all in the hands of the beholder.
This was such an educational book, and was fascinating look at a company that was ahead of its time. Reading of the history and culture really helped bring the story to life.
Thanks to Pen and Sword for sharing an ebook ARC for review.
#AHistoryOfCadbury #netgalley
by Sir Dominic Cadbury & Diane Wordsworth
due 5-31-2019
Pen & Sword
4.0 / 5.0
In 1824, after spending a year in London studying retailing and tea dealing, John Cadbury joined the family business,by starting his own business as a warehouse in Birmingham, England selling Fine Teas, Spices, Coffee and Cocoa. The stores biggest seller was tea. Slowly the process of extracting butter from the chocolate, making it edible and naming it Cadbury´s Cocoa Essence. By 1842, Cadbury had more than 30 different types of drinking chocolate and cocoa; by 1897 they had manufactured the first chocolate bar.
The Cadburys believed a happy and healthy worker is more productive and took measures to ensure his workers stayed healthy and were one one of the first to offer health and dental care, a pension fund, and eventually built entire villages, with playgrounds, schools, and churches and by 1930 had 2000 homes he gave to employees. The Cadburys loved the idea of integration and would build expensive homes next door to a low income property. One of the most important things was Johns Quaker beliefs and believed in abstinence, promoting chocolate as an alternative to alcohol.
As time went on, some began to see Cadburys vision of a village not as an inclusive and healthy idea, but as bigoted, controlling and patriarchal. Workers were forced to attend educational classes, had to learn to swim and participate in sports. Only single women were employed and morning prayers were mandatory and every morning. I guess its all in the hands of the beholder.
This was such an educational book, and was fascinating look at a company that was ahead of its time. Reading of the history and culture really helped bring the story to life.
Thanks to Pen and Sword for sharing an ebook ARC for review.
#AHistoryOfCadbury #netgalley
June 26, 2019
This book charts the history of Cadbury from it's beginnings to the present day - although rather more detail is obviously placed on the early beginnings as Cadbury is now owned by Mondelez International.
I hadn't realised that Cadbury began by selling drinking chocolate and only later diversified into chocolate itself. In fact I spent the few chapters telling my partner all the various little tidbits that I knew he would like to know also. One of which is that there used to be a Plain Tray - I never really gave much thought as to why it is called Milk Tray! Milk chocolate was the turnaround for the company as it outsold the plain almost immediately.
Bournville was of course a Garden City set up by Cadbury and I loved all the social history aspects of reading about what the employees could and couldn't do. I also hadn't realised that the Cadbury family were Quakers. I'm inspired now to go and visit Bournville - not Cadbury World, but the actual village and also Selly Manor.
There are lots of photos and illustrations throughout. However each chapter does somewhat repeat itself at times, as they are arranged into themes and not chronological. Personally I would have preferred to just go through the years to the present day in one go.
There are some fabulous first hand accounts of what life was like at the factory and in the village and if nothing else it is good that these have been preserved for future generations to read.
I'm giving this book 4 out of 5 stars. My thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
I hadn't realised that Cadbury began by selling drinking chocolate and only later diversified into chocolate itself. In fact I spent the few chapters telling my partner all the various little tidbits that I knew he would like to know also. One of which is that there used to be a Plain Tray - I never really gave much thought as to why it is called Milk Tray! Milk chocolate was the turnaround for the company as it outsold the plain almost immediately.
Bournville was of course a Garden City set up by Cadbury and I loved all the social history aspects of reading about what the employees could and couldn't do. I also hadn't realised that the Cadbury family were Quakers. I'm inspired now to go and visit Bournville - not Cadbury World, but the actual village and also Selly Manor.
There are lots of photos and illustrations throughout. However each chapter does somewhat repeat itself at times, as they are arranged into themes and not chronological. Personally I would have preferred to just go through the years to the present day in one go.
There are some fabulous first hand accounts of what life was like at the factory and in the village and if nothing else it is good that these have been preserved for future generations to read.
I'm giving this book 4 out of 5 stars. My thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
October 28, 2020
Once I got into the groove of reading this book, it took me a surprisingly short time to finish it. It was surprising because I had started it over a year ago and had not made significant progress then. I must say my review copy had missing letters, the same ones every time ‘fl’ and ‘fi’ so that might have been a factor. I start with this to show that this late start did not mar what I got from the book finally.
As any respectable adult who grew up in the nineties ( in India, a relevant mention once I found out something startling at the end of the book), I subsisted primarily on Cadbury’s chocolates. This was when we were allowed to have chocolates, and when relatives from abroad did not provide random variety during yearly visits. I thought I would find the birth of the company interesting. That statement might be putting it mildly since I found out so much more than just the running of the place. There were the social and economic implications of a company such as this which were completely new to me. Also new to me was the reason Cadbury changed recently. I was not very adept in keeping with world news and knew nothing of what happened at the company. The world has evolved over the years and that is reflected in some of the information provided.
I highly recommend this book to anyone even mildly interested in Cadbury’s and what they might signify.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
As any respectable adult who grew up in the nineties ( in India, a relevant mention once I found out something startling at the end of the book), I subsisted primarily on Cadbury’s chocolates. This was when we were allowed to have chocolates, and when relatives from abroad did not provide random variety during yearly visits. I thought I would find the birth of the company interesting. That statement might be putting it mildly since I found out so much more than just the running of the place. There were the social and economic implications of a company such as this which were completely new to me. Also new to me was the reason Cadbury changed recently. I was not very adept in keeping with world news and knew nothing of what happened at the company. The world has evolved over the years and that is reflected in some of the information provided.
I highly recommend this book to anyone even mildly interested in Cadbury’s and what they might signify.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
September 22, 2021
Loved this story. A History of Cadbury was very well written with an easy to follow the storyline and well-crafted characters.
Synopsis: When John Cadbury came to Birmingham in 1824, he sold tea, coffee and drinking chocolate in a small shop on Bull Street. Drinking chocolate was considered a healthy alternative to alcohol, something Cadbury, a Quaker, was keen to encourage. In 1879, the Cadburys moved to Bournville and created their ‘factory in a garden’ – an unprecedented move. It is now ironic that today’s Bournville is surrounded by that urban sprawl the Cadburys were so keen to get away from. This book looks at some of the social impact this company has had since its inception, both on the chocolate and cocoa business in general and on the community at large, both within and without the firm of Cadbury. In 2024, Cadbury's will be celebrating 200 years of the first store opening. This is the story of how the company began, how it grew, and how they diversified in order to survive.
Can't wait to read more from these authors. I highly recommend this book.
Synopsis: When John Cadbury came to Birmingham in 1824, he sold tea, coffee and drinking chocolate in a small shop on Bull Street. Drinking chocolate was considered a healthy alternative to alcohol, something Cadbury, a Quaker, was keen to encourage. In 1879, the Cadburys moved to Bournville and created their ‘factory in a garden’ – an unprecedented move. It is now ironic that today’s Bournville is surrounded by that urban sprawl the Cadburys were so keen to get away from. This book looks at some of the social impact this company has had since its inception, both on the chocolate and cocoa business in general and on the community at large, both within and without the firm of Cadbury. In 2024, Cadbury's will be celebrating 200 years of the first store opening. This is the story of how the company began, how it grew, and how they diversified in order to survive.
Can't wait to read more from these authors. I highly recommend this book.
May 31, 2019
Ahhh! One of my favorite chocolates! It's right with Swiss chocolate- yum! I think more books on great candy makers should be written. I can't believe this company is 200 years old, though only the past 100 are covered in this book. Just amazing. Even more amazing is the fact that their chocolates really haven't changed from when I was a child way back in the 60's! Hershey's, sure has over the years. I still remember the goodness of Hersheys when I was a kid, it's not the same today, sadly. I haven't seen a book on Nestle candy or Nedderegger- so authors take note! There's market! great book! Entertaining and engaging story.
I received a Kindle arc in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
I received a Kindle arc in exchange for a fair review from Netgalley.
July 10, 2019
Few people who love chocolate actually stop to consider how the chocolate we eat today evolved. A History of Cadbury is not only written about the history of chocolate, it focuses on one of the premier families in the chocolate industry. Our favorite milk chocolate bar is a side product of the drinking chocolate that started everyone's addiction. As a Quaker family restricted from drinking coffee, the Cadbury's beverage of choice became the cornerstone of today's multi-million chocolate lover's market. The history of Cadbury is a very fascinating read for any chocolate lover.
Read
May 13, 2019I started reading this book, and at 3% in the copy I've received has missing letters in at least 4 places. So far its been confined to "fi" at the beginning of words so, first is rst, firm is rm, field is eld and fulfilled is fulling . Whilst its not too many, it's pulling me out of reading it trying to decipher the word and as its archived now I cannot get another copy.
Pity really, looked like an interesting book of its history.
May 27, 2019
This was a really interesting look at the history of Cadbury Chocolate. I live near Hershey, so am very familiar with the history of that chocolate company, but had never heard about how Cadbury got started. The fact that it had Quaker roots and John Cadbury thought that his chocolate drink could take the place of alcohol was fascinating. This is truly one of those books that you will find little pieces of interesting trivia!
February 19, 2020
This book is a great piece of history on the Cadbury family and how they grew their business to the empire it is today. Even if you do not like non-fiction or history, you will find this book extremely interesting, in my opinion. It does not just tell the good, it also tells the bad as well. If you love Cadbury eggs, and buy them up when they are available, this is a must read. Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2020
This is a very interesting and thorough history of the first 100 years of the Cadbury company and its founders. Scattered throughout are many vintage postcards and photos of various chocolate boxes and the factory workers producing early chocolate items such are Easter eggs.
(NetGalley ebook - I received a complimentary advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
(NetGalley ebook - I received a complimentary advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
January 17, 2021
This was a completely unexpected thrill! From the founding to the future, I found myself excited to learn about the company of who's chocolate I so crave. It was a welcome relief during the pandemic, as it sparked discussions with my husband and friends, and led to further research on my part. Thought invoking, and interesting.
May 27, 2019
This is a collection book about this historical and marvelous chocolate maker. The book includes the social impact of this first factory and the begging of this emblematic brand.
#AHistoryOfCadbury #NetGalley
#AHistoryOfCadbury #NetGalley
June 12, 2019
Beautifully illustrated history of Cadbury! Fascinating history of one of my most beloved chocolates. The start of the company and growth to the modern day company is well written and easy to read.
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
August 17, 2019
Competent history of the subject, but I had discovered much of the content on a tour of the Cadbury factory some years ago, so there were few surprises.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2024
This is a wonderful, chocolately story on the history of Cadbury's. It gives you a clear insight to how it all began and what it was like working for Cadbury's. A highly recommended read for those that love chocolate, especially Cadbury's!
January 26, 2021
What a great book. I learned so much about Chocolate , Tea, Cocoa, all how about how to make it. Who made it. Stories about the Family. It was nice to learn something.
December 4, 2024
Interesting book
Not a bad book, good history of the setup of Cadburys etc, full of facts/dates, names etc. Took me a little while to read it, but i enjoyed it
Not a bad book, good history of the setup of Cadburys etc, full of facts/dates, names etc. Took me a little while to read it, but i enjoyed it
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