For almost a century, York has housed one of the most popular chocolate bars globally – KitKat. Originally introduced in 1935 as Rowntree’s Chocolate Crisp, this beloved treat has been manufactured in the city’s historic confines ever since. Today, under Nestlé’s ownership, the York factory remains the pivotal hub for KitKat production, catering not only to the UK market but also serving consumers worldwide.
At the core of KitKat’s evolution lies a dedicated team of experts continuously enhancing the product to align with contemporary preferences while retaining its timeless flavor cherished by generations. While many dream of contributing to the creation of one of the UK’s favorite chocolate bars, for Rob Jackson, a product and process specialist at Nestlé focused on KitKat, it’s a reality.
Rob, who delved into the confectionery world eight years ago with a background in forensic anthropology and teaching experience, sought a practical application for his scientific acumen. Joining Nestlé’s global confectionery R&D center in York as a lab technician, Rob found his niche in the ever-evolving world of KitKat.
Transitioning through various departments within Nestlé, Rob currently thrives in the factory environment, relishing the diverse challenges it offers. With a continuous focus on enhancements and sustainability, Rob and his team persistently work on refining processes, experimenting with ingredients, and adopting modern technologies to minimize carbon footprints and enhance operational efficiencies.
While remaining tight-lipped about upcoming chocolate bar innovations, Rob hints at exciting developments on the horizon. The stringent quality standards of KitKat are upheld by an in-house panel of expert tasters trained to discern nuanced flavors objectively, ensuring consumer preferences guide product decisions.
Reflecting on his career journey, Rob exudes satisfaction, finding joy even amidst challenges, appreciating the unique and exciting nature of his work. As KitKat marks 90 years as a symbol of York’s confectionery legacy, individuals like Rob pave the way for a promising and sweet future ahead.