The Boyce family’s gatherings often revolve around discussions of Nestlé, as many generations of their family have been employed at the company’s Tutbury plant in Derbyshire. For Sam Boyce, aged 58, the shared connection to Nestlé is a significant aspect of their family heritage, dating back to World War II.
The Tutbury factory, initially established in 1901 for tinned milk production, holds special memories for Sam’s sister Karen, who recalls their grandmother working there. The factory has been a focal point in the local community, employing numerous family members, including uncles.
Transitioning to instant coffee manufacturing in 1959, the factory now produces an impressive amount daily, including 170,000 jars of Nescafé, 25 million Nescafé Dolce Gusto pods weekly, and various Starbucks at Home products. Witnessing the factory’s evolution over the years, Sam and Karen have experienced firsthand how Nestlé has provided stability and job opportunities for their village.
Sam’s journey at the factory began in 1995, where he packed specially designed coffee sachets for Concorde. He reminisces about the camaraderie and fun atmosphere that made work feel like spending time with friends. Advancements in automation have significantly enhanced efficiency, reducing tasks that once took days to mere hours.
Having worked her way up to become a shift manager, Sam appreciates the abundant opportunities Nestlé has offered, enabling him to fulfill his dreams of owning a motorbike, car, and traveling the world. Karen, who joined in 1998, balanced work with family time by working evenings while her children were in school.
As a technical operator creating sachets for hotels, Karen takes pride in her work, especially when enjoying a cup of coffee on vacation, thinking, ‘I made this!’ Despite initial doubts, Karen found the factory welcoming and supportive, attributing her comfort to the family’s long history with Nestlé.
Continuing the family legacy, Sam’s son Ryan, aged 38, serves as a lead operator with aspirations to pursue engineering. Nestlé is supporting his ambition by sponsoring his NVQ level three in mechanical engineering, highlighting the company’s commitment to employee development.
For Ryan, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial to being present for his family, just as his father was for him. Nestlé’s role in facilitating career growth while prioritizing family values has resonated with Ryan, allowing him to enjoy important moments in his children’s lives.
Nestlé, deeply rooted in UK heritage and family legacies, remains a beacon of innovation, leveraging British expertise and technology to craft one of the world’s most recognized coffee brands.