Every family gathering for the Boyce family revolves around food and drink, sparking conversations about the long-standing connection their family has with Nestlé. Through multiple generations, Boyces have been part of the workforce at Nestlé’s Tutbury factory in Derbyshire, creating a shared heritage.
Established in 1901, the Tutbury factory initially focused on tinned milk production. Karen, Sam’s sister, who is also employed by Nestlé, fondly recalls their grandmother’s tenure at the factory.
Many uncles of the Boyce family have also contributed their time at the factory, which remains a central pillar of the local community.
In 1959, the factory transitioned to producing instant coffee, now churning out 170,000 jars of Nescafé daily, along with 25 million Nescafé Dolce Gusto pods weekly and an array of Starbucks at Home products.
Witnessing the factory’s evolution over the years, Sam and Karen have noted the positive impact of Nestlé on their village, providing stability and job opportunities.
Sam’s journey began in 1995, where he started by packing specially crafted coffee sachets for Concorde. Reflecting on those early days, Sam remarks on the camaraderie and joy of working alongside friends, making it feel more like a social gathering than a job.
Advancements in automation have significantly streamlined processes, transforming tasks that once took days into mere hours, as per Sam’s observations.
Rising through the ranks, Sam now holds the position of shift manager, highlighting the abundant opportunities and fulfilling life that Nestlé has afforded him.
Karen, who joined the workforce in 1998, initially balanced work with family responsibilities by opting for evening shifts while her children were at school.
Currently serving as a technical operator specializing in hotel sachet production, Karen takes pride in her work, especially when enjoying a cup of coffee on vacation, knowing she played a part in its creation.
Continuing the family legacy, Sam’s son Ryan, aged 38, serves as a lead operator at the factory. Expressing aspirations to pursue engineering, Ryan is grateful for Nestlé’s support in enrolling him in an NVQ level three mechanical engineering program to aid his career advancement.
Emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, Ryan values the ability to be present for significant moments in his children’s lives, inspired by his father’s example of being actively involved in his upbringing.
While Nestlé boasts a rich UK heritage spanning generations and families, the company remains dedicated to innovation, utilizing top-tier British expertise and technology to produce globally recognized coffee brands.