In the heart of Claremont, Tasmania, a remarkable story of family and fidelity is being written in chocolate. The Salter family has dedicated an astonishing 180 years across three generations to the iconic Cadbury factory, creating a sweet legacy of loyalty that is as rich as the confectionery they produce.
A Family Tradition in Purple
Jamie Salter, a key figure in this lineage, often jokes that his blood runs purple – a testament to his profound connection to the Cadbury brand. Following in the footsteps of his mother and father, Jamie has spent 38 years at the Claremont facility, a tenure that has helped push his family's collective service close to the two-century mark.
This deep-rooted commitment is not an isolated case at the factory. The average staff tenure at Cadbury is an impressive 20 years, highlighting a culture that fosters long-term careers.
Jamie's journey began at 17, when he was uncertain about his future. "I hadn't decided what I wanted to do so my father said, 'Why don't you come up to Cadbury and work?'" he recalls. His plan was to try it for a single year, but 38 years later, he is still there, captivated by the people and the opportunities.
Evolution of a Chocolate Giant
The tradition of employing families at Cadbury dates back to its founders. George and Richard Cadbury, sons of founder John Cadbury, purchased the Claremont site in 1920. The first blocks of chocolate rolled out in 1922, and today, the factory is a powerhouse, producing more than 60,000 tonnes of chocolate annually. That equates to over 200 million blocks each year.
Jamie has witnessed significant transformation during his time. The company has invested millions in automation and robotics, while also focusing heavily on upskilling its workforce.
"We teach our operators maintenance skills so instead of them having to stop and wait for equipment to be fixed, the operators are trained with the skills to do minor repairs," Jamie explains. This philosophy ensures the job is about more than just pressing buttons; it's about personal and professional growth.
The Legacy Continues
The Salter family's purple bloodline is now flowing into a third generation. Jamie's son, Kaden, aged 30, started work at the Claremont factory this year, proudly continuing the family's long-standing relationship with Cadbury.
Jamie sees a bright future for his son, noting his ambition and the company's history of providing pathways for advancement. "Cadbury gives people a lot of opportunities and I've been lucky over my years to travel the world, all of Asia and Europe, looking at equipment and visiting other plants," he said. "It makes you proud to say you work here."
This enduring story of the Salter family is more than just about making chocolate; it's a testament to a workplace that cultivates loyalty, values its people, and creates legories that span generations.
