n fact, Cadbury was able to gain a 30% increase in its annual profits, predominantly from the sales of Dairy Milk and Trident. But even then, recession did play its part as the company managed only to hit the lower end of its 4%-6% revenue for 2009, the peak of the recession. And while Dairy Milk chocolate and Trident Gum sold well, other brands like Halls also saw a rise in their annual sales.

SOCIAL
In one respect, Cadbury was born as a result of social factors. Being run by a Quaker family, their opposition to alcohol served as the basis of running a business that sold tea, coffee, cocoa, and liquid chocolate. But while chocolate and other products sold by the company are socially acceptable worldwide, Cadbury has been on the receiving end of controversies, the recent one involving Cadbury products being ‘Halal Certified’ to cater to Muslim markets around the world.

In addition, there are also concerns in the western world owing to rising cases of obesity, especially among children. Many nutritionists recommend people to reduce their consumption of chocolate and candy, which is likely to affect Cadbury sales in the future.

TECHNOLOGY
Finally, technology has changed Cadbury’s production and packing process over the years, starting with the introduction of new brew machines to blend coffee and cocoa gains. Recent moves in this regard include the use of pathogen testing systems and filing patents for heat-resistant chocolate.

CONCLUSION
In this PEST analysis of Cadbury, we saw how this leading chocolate company has dealt with external factors in the UK and in many other countries as well. Of course, the format of the presentation barred us from discussing how the acquisition of Kraft Foods will affect company performance in the