York is home to two of Britain’s most famous manufacturers of chocolate – Rowntrees and Terry’s were both founded in the city.
Rowntrees
Rowntrees was founded in York in 186. Joseph Rowntrees, one of the founders, became well known for his philanthropy, creating a foundation and championing social reform and welfare for his workforce. His Quaker roots encouraged his support of many charitable causes, and donations to the city of York. Perhaps the most well known are Rowntrees Park next to the River Ouse, Joseph Rowntrees school and New Earswick, the garden village built to house his workers. The Joseph Rowntrees trust still carries out very important work in the field of social reform.
Rowntrees itself was extremely successful company producing a long line of household names that include: KitKat, Smarties, Aero, Fruit Pastilles, Quality St, Polo. In 1988 Nestle took over Rowntrees Macintosh, and rebranded many of their products. Production still continues today at the large site just west of the city centre.
Terry’s
Terrys was founded in 1823 by Joseph Terry. The original factory was based in Clementhorpe, York; but it everntually outgrew its capacity, so the company moved production to the site by the Knavesmire in 1926. During WWII the factory was used to make aeroplane propellers. The most famous products to come out of Terry’s was the Terry’s Chocolate Orange and Terry’s All Gold. Sadly the site closed in 2004 after a takeover by Kraft, with production moving elsewhere in Europe.
Terry's Factory, near the Knavesmire
