The summer season ended on a high note in Tutbury and Hatton as the Nestlé coffee factory welcomed over 1,000 visitors to its annual Country Fair and Duck Race. Held in partnership with the Dove Valley Community Project, the free family event has become a beloved tradition, offering a full day of connection, celebration and community spirit.
The fair featured more than 30 artisan stalls, craft activities, face painting, bubble art stations, and a charming animal farm experience for children. Guests were also treated to complimentary Nestlé favourites throughout the day, bringing a real sense of hospitality to the event.
Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the event raised an impressive £2,955 for three meaningful causes: FareShare, helping to tackle hunger and food waste; the WWF, supporting global conservation; and local employee Dave Paxton, who is undergoing life-saving immunotherapy treatment.
Behind the scenes, the success of the event came down to the dedication of Nestlé employees. Jane Downes, Staff Shop Assistant, has been organising the Country Fair and Duck Race for the past four years.
“It was a great day in Tutbury, welcoming friends, families and employees from across the area to get together and have fun,” Jane said. “It is important to me that Nestlé Tutbury remains a place that values its community.”
Nestlé Tutbury is more than a coffee factory. Established in 1901, it is now a Coffee Centre of Excellence, producing popular brands like Nescafé Dolce Gusto, Nescafé Azera and Starbucks at Home.
Here are some quick facts about the site:
- Produces 175,000 jars of coffee every day
- One of only two global sites making Dolce Gusto pods at a rate of 4 million per day
- Employs nearly 1,000 people, many from local families
- Received a £110 million investment in 2011 to expand
- Featured in a BBC Two documentary on coffee production
- Became the central hub for all Nestlé UK & Ireland coffee production in 2014
As the site continues to innovate and expand, its roots remain firmly grounded in community. Events like the Country Fair and Duck Race are a clear reminder that at Nestlé Tutbury, it’s not just about making coffee — it’s about making a difference.
Watch more from the Nestlé ‘Good for Britain, Good for the Future’ campaign here: Watch the video
Support Dave Paxton’s fundraiser: Donate here
