Green light for expansion of Dunedin’s Cadbury World

Mondelez International, owner of chocolate maker Cadbury, has announced that a $7 million redevelopment of Dunedin Cadbury World will go ahead.

The move to develop Cadbury World follows the decision, announced earlier this year, to end manufacturing operations in Dunedin.

Having previously presented plans for an expanded visitor attraction on the centrally-located factory site, the Otago Daily Times has reported that investment will go ahead, creating 25 new jobs.

Mondelez’s New Zealand Country Manager James Kane stated “the $7 million investment will create an entirely new tourism experience in the historic Castle St Old Dairy which is being refurbished to provide a new home for Cadbury World.”

“We hope to double the number of full-time equivalent roles from about 25 to 50.”

“Visitor numbers are expected to go from 110,000 to over 180,000 per year, ensuring it remains one of Dunedin’s most popular tourist attractions and a popular meeting place for the local community.”

“The decision to end local operations has been a difficult one for our people and the business, however our investment in Cadbury World ensures an important part of Dunedin’s growing tourism sector remains in the city.”

Mondelez has also committed to continue running events as part of the annual Cadbury Chocolate Carnival.

Kane added “we know many of the Carnival events are incredibly popular, and also provide support for local community groups.

“We thought long and hard about what would be appropriate in 2018 following the closure of the Dunedin factory, and sought feedback from the local team and community stakeholders.

“We believe a calendar of events associated with Cadbury World is the best way to continue to engage the local community, attract visitors from outside Dunedin, and raise funds for our community partners.”

Image courtesy Cadbury World.

7th July 2017 - OTAGO MUSEUM UNDERGOING FINAL STAGE OF SCIENCE-FOCUSED REDEVELOPMENT 

21st May 2017 - CADBURY WORLD ATTRACTION TO EXPAND IN DUNEDIN

22nd March 2016 - MUSEUMS AOTEAROA AND MUSEUMS AUSTRALIA COMBINE TO STAGE FIRST EVER JOINT CONFERENCE 

18th August 2015 - TOURISM BOOSTING SOUTH ISLAND’S ECONOMY

9th March 2015  - CADBURY PASSES ON $16 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDS FOR VISITOR CENTRE UPGRADE

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