York is a city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and of course, its delicious chocolate. When it comes to chocolate factories, there’s one name that stands out in York – the famous York Chocolate Factory. But who actually owns this renowned establishment?
A Brief History of the York Chocolate Factory
The York Chocolate Factory has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 18th century. It all began with the arrival of the Quaker families, who introduced the art of chocolate-making to the city. One of the most notable families was the Terry family, who established their chocolate factory in York in 1767.
Over the years, the Terry family’s chocolate factory grew in popularity, becoming a beloved local institution. The factory produced a wide range of chocolate products, including the iconic Terry’s Chocolate Orange and Terry’s All Gold. The factory thrived for decades, making York a hub for chocolate lovers from all over the world.
The Acquisition by Kraft Foods
In 1993, the Terry’s Chocolate Factory was bought by the American food conglomerate, Kraft Foods. This acquisition marked a significant turning point in the factory’s ownership. Under Kraft Foods, the factory underwent several changes and modernizations, ensuring that it remained competitive in the ever-evolving chocolate industry.
Kraft Foods recognized the value of the Terry’s brand and its heritage, and continued to produce the iconic Terry’s Chocolate Orange and other products that had become synonymous with quality and taste. The ownership by Kraft Foods brought new opportunities for expansion and global distribution for the York Chocolate Factory.
A New Chapter: Mondelēz International
In 2012, Kraft Foods made a strategic decision to split its business into two separate companies – Kraft Foods Group and Mondelēz International. The York Chocolate Factory became part of Mondelēz International, along with many other well-known chocolate brands.
Mondelēz International is a multinational confectionery, food, and beverage conglomerate with headquarters in Chicago, Illinois. Their portfolio includes famous brands like Cadbury, Toblerone, and Milka, and now the iconic Terry’s Chocolate Orange and All Gold are also a part of their family of products.
Continuing the Tradition of Quality and Innovation
Under the ownership of Mondelēz International, the York Chocolate Factory continues to thrive and innovate. The factory combines traditional chocolate-making techniques with modern technology to create a wide range of delicious treats.
The York Chocolate Factory is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a significant contributor to the local economy. It employs numerous chocolate enthusiasts, ensuring that the tradition of chocolate-making in York remains alive and well.
Conclusion
The famous York Chocolate Factory in York has a rich history and a legacy that is cherished by both locals and visitors. From its humble beginnings as a Quaker family enterprise to its current ownership by Mondelēz International, the factory has consistently delivered the finest chocolates for over two centuries.
While the ownership may have changed hands over the years, one thing remains constant – the passion for creating exceptional chocolates. So next time you indulge in a piece of Terry’s Chocolate Orange or All Gold, remember the long lineage of chocolatiers who have dedicated themselves to bringing joy to chocolate lovers around the world.