For close to a century, York has housed the renowned KitKat chocolate bar, a global favorite since its inception in 1935 as Rowntree’s Chocolate Crisp. The iconic treat has been manufactured in the city continuously and is currently produced under Nestlé’s ownership. The York factory serves as the central hub for KitKat production, catering not only to the UK market but also meeting demands worldwide.
A skilled team at the York factory is dedicated to enhancing and modernizing the beloved KitKat while preserving its traditional flavor that has resonated with generations. Rob Jackson, a product and process specialist at Nestlé, is part of this innovation journey. Despite his background in forensic anthropology and teaching, Rob found his niche in the confectionery industry, drawn by the practical industrial application at Nestlé’s confectionery R&D center in York.
Over the past eight years, Rob has transitioned through various roles within Nestlé, from the laboratory to the KitKat team, emphasizing the dynamic nature of his work. Continuous refinement and innovation are key aspects of Rob’s responsibilities, whether it involves testing new ingredients, recipe adjustments, process enhancements, or sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions.
Maintaining KitKat’s quality standards involves an in-house team of expert tasters trained to discern subtle flavor discrepancies objectively. Feedback from these tasters helps drive decisions on product improvements that align with consumer preferences. Rob expresses enthusiasm for the future, hinting at upcoming chocolate bar innovations while keeping a focus on sustainability efforts within the production process.
Rob’s career journey underscores the excitement and satisfaction of contributing to a globally recognized product like KitKat. Despite the challenges that may arise, Rob finds fulfillment in the impactful and enjoyable nature of his work. As KitKat marks its 90th year in York, the brand’s legacy as a symbol of confectionery excellence remains strong, promising a sweet future guided by dedicated professionals like Rob.