When the Boyce family gathers, the topic of conversation often revolves around Nestlé, as multiple generations of Boyces have been employed at the Nestlé factory in Tutbury, Derbyshire.
Sam Boyce, aged 58, remarks, “Nestlé is a common thread among us. Looking back at our family’s history, you can trace our ties to the company all the way back to World War II. It’s not just a workplace; it’s part of our legacy.”
Established in 1901, the Tutbury facility initially focused on producing canned milk. Karen, Sam’s sister and a Nestlé employee, recalls their grandmother’s tenure at the factory.
Several uncles have also contributed their time to the factory, which plays a central role in the local community.
In 1959, the factory transitioned to the production of instant coffee. Presently, it manufactures 170,000 jars of Nescafé daily, 25 million Nescafé Dolce Gusto pods weekly, and various Starbucks at Home products.
Throughout the years, Sam and Karen have witnessed the factory’s evolution and expansion, providing their village with stability and job opportunities.
Sam’s employment journey began in 1995, where he packed coffee sachets designed for Concorde flights. He reminisces, “It was enjoyable as we could chat and laugh. It felt more like spending time with friends than working!
“Today, everything is automated, representing significant progress. Tasks that used to take us days are now completed within hours.”
Having climbed the ranks to become a shift manager, Sam acknowledges the remarkable career prospects Nestlé offers. He reflects, “I’ve achieved everything I ever desired – from owning a car and motorcycle to traveling the world on holidays.
“Additionally, Nestlé has provided me with opportunities to explore different work cultures in countries like Switzerland, Denmark, and Sweden.”
Karen, aged 63, joined Nestlé in 1998, balancing work with family commitments by working evening shifts while her children were at school.
Currently serving as a technical operator crafting sachets for hotels, she takes pride in her work, especially when enjoying a cup of coffee on vacation, thinking, ‘I contributed to making this!’
Recalling her early days at the factory, Karen admits, “When I first saw those massive machines, I doubted my abilities. However, everyone was so supportive and willing to assist. With our family’s history tied to this place, I feel right at home.”
Carrying on the family legacy, Sam’s son Ryan, aged 38, serves as a lead operator. Ryan expresses his desire to venture into engineering and appreciates Nestlé sponsoring his NVQ level three mechanical engineering studies.
Reflecting on his motivation, Ryan shares, “Having started with a young family, I aim to provide for them just like my father did for us. Nestlé’s support ensures I can maintain a healthy work-life balance, enabling me to be present for my children’s milestones, like watching my son excel in sports and attending my daughter’s performances.”
While Nestlé boasts a rich UK heritage spanning several generations and families, it remains at the forefront of innovation, utilizing British expertise and technology to produce one of the world’s most renowned coffee brands.