Guest Skip Montreux, an international business expert, and Samantha Vega take listeners on a fascinating journey through the history and global success of Kit Kat chocolate bars. They discuss the origins of Kit Kat, its dual manufacturing by Hershey's and Nestl, the availability of different flavors in various regions, and the story behind its famous slogan. A must-listen for business English learners interested in international business strategies and language.
The history of Kit Kat showcases the importance of international business strategies and language in building a global brand.
Kit Kat's regional manufacturing and distribution strategies, such as the agreement with Hershey's in the US, play a crucial role in its success and avoid market competition.
Deep dives
KitKat's Origins and Name
The origin of KitKat's name can be traced back to a 17th-century London-based pie maker named Christopher Catling, whose pies were loved by an elite social club known as the KitKat Club. In 1911, the British confectionery company Roundtrees trademarked the name KitKat and later used it for a box of assorted chocolates. In the 1930s, Roundtrees developed a chocolate-dipped wafer snack known as Roundtrees Chocolate Crisp, which was later renamed KitKat chocolate crisps.
Manufacturing and Distribution
KitKat's manufacturing and distribution vary depending on the region. In the US, Hershey's produces KitKat's under an agreement with Roundtrees, while Nestle produces them in Europe and Asia. Nestle acquired Roundtrees in 1988 and took over the KitKat line, but the agreement with Hershey's remains in perpetuity. This strategic move ensures that Nestle receives royalties from Hershey's KitKat sales without competing with Hershey's in the US market.
Flavors and Localization Strategy
Nestle's Japanese R&D and marketing team has introduced over 400 unique flavors of KitKat's in the past 20 years, releasing about 20 new flavors each year. These flavors are often region-specific and cater to the local tastes and preferences of Japanese consumers. Nestle's localization strategy has been highly successful, creating a sense of exclusivity and novelty around KitKat flavors in Japan.
Kit Kat, a chocolate bar that has transcended borders and cultures, offers an intriguing lesson in business English. From its humble beginnings in a 17th-century pie shop to its current status as a global brand, the Kit Kat story is a fascinating case study in international business strategies and language.
Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega take you on a journey through the complex and fascinating world of Kit Kat. They discuss its origins, its dual manufacturing by Hershey's and Nestlé, and how it became a global phenomenon.
Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions:
What is the history behind this chocolate bar that is beloved world wide?
Why are flavored Kit Kats only available in some regions of the world and not others?
And what is the story behind Kit Kat’s famous slogan?