variants in the traditional chocolate bar first appeared in 1996 when kit kat orange, the first flavour variant, was introduced in the united kingdom. its success was followed by several varieties including mint and caramel, and in 1999 kit kat chunky was launched and received favourably by international consumers. variations on the traditional kit kat have continued to be developed since then. in 2000, nestlé acquired fujiya's share of the brand in japan, and also expanded its marketplace in japan, russia, turkey, and venezuela, in addition to markets in eastern and central europe. throughout the decade, kit kat introduced dozens of flavours and line extensions within specific consumer markets. it celebrated its 75th anniversary on 10 october 2009.