Merlin’s Cadbury World marks 35 years. Gerrard Baldwin recalls memories from early production to celebrity visits.
Generations of chocolate fans remember visiting. It opened its doors in August 1990. Cadbury World opened 35 years ago.
Gerrard Baldwin is now the general manager. He began his career at age 16, working on the Bournville factory production lines. Now 65, Baldwin says he loved his Cadbury career. He enjoyed both manufacturing and attraction work.
Baldwin found the change daunting yet exciting, although his manufacturing coworkers thought he was crazy. He thought it would be a short assignment, but he has now been there for thirty-five years. Baldwin saw the attraction change over time.
The first ‘Cadabra’ ride arrived in 1997. They added a 4D cinema in 2014. Merlin acquired Cadbury World in 2023. Baldwin recalls the opening day fondly. He walked the long queue and offered Roses chocolates to the waiting guests. The day was a big success for everyone.
A career highlight was Princess Anne’s visit. Peter Andre’s surprise visit also created excitement, and many of his fans came along. He will retire in six weeks, at which time his chocolate career at Cadbury will end. He calls it a joyous, lifelong experience.
Baldwin will miss his colleagues very much. He believes Merlin will lead the attraction to success. He views the staff as one big family. They make Cadbury World magical.
Cadbury World brings back memories. It is a unique chocolate attraction. He will miss everyone greatly, but he is optimistic for Cadbury World’s future.