Toblerone is one of the most distinctive chocolates in the world. With its triangular peaks, honey-almond nougat and smooth Swiss milk chocolate, it is a bar that feels as special as it tastes. Whether you associate it with Christmas stockings, airport duty-free aisles or as a classic gift to take abroad, Toblerone has built a name that transcends borders. But where exactly is Toblerone made, and does it still carry the true spirit of Swiss chocolate craftsmanship?
The Birthplace of Toblerone
Toblerone was first created in 1908 in Bern, the capital of Switzerland, by Theodor Tobler and his cousin Emil Baumann. The two worked in the family’s chocolate business and wanted to develop something completely unique. Their creation blended Swiss milk chocolate with nougat, honey and almonds, resulting in a recipe that remains largely unchanged today. The now-famous triangle shape is believed to have been inspired by the Matterhorn mountain, and for decades, every Toblerone bar was produced exclusively in Bern. The name Toblerone itself is a clever mix of the Tobler family name and the Italian word torrone, which means nougat.
The Bern Factory and Its Symbolic Role
For over a century, the Bern factory was the beating heart of Toblerone production. The brand proudly carried the label “of Switzerland” on its packaging, which not only celebrated its roots but also signalled to consumers a high standard of chocolate making. Swiss chocolate is known the world over for its creaminess, smoothness and fine quality. Toblerone’s association with its homeland helped make it an icon, and many consumers felt that the Swiss origin added to its charm and value.
Production Expansion Beyond Switzerland
In recent years, Toblerone’s manufacturing journey took a new turn. Mondelēz International, the multinational company that owns Toblerone, announced in 2022 that it would be moving some of its production from Switzerland to Slovakia. This change was part of a broader strategy to improve supply chain efficiency and meet global demand. The new production site is located in Bratislava and now handles part of the Toblerone output alongside the original Swiss facility.
Packaging Changes and Protected Labels
As a result of the shift in production, Toblerone had to make changes to its packaging. Under Swiss law, certain products that carry the "of Switzerland" label must be made exclusively in Switzerland to maintain that status. With part of the production moving to Slovakia, Toblerone could no longer use the original claim. Instead, newer packaging now states “established in Switzerland” or carries a different variation of the branding to reflect its updated production status. While this raised eyebrows for some, the company has confirmed that the recipe, quality and sourcing of ingredients remain consistent, regardless of where the chocolate is made.
Does the Change Affect the Taste
Many loyal fans have asked whether the shift in manufacturing affects the flavour or quality of Toblerone. So far, reviews suggest that the chocolate maintains its signature taste and texture. The same ingredients, recipe and quality controls are in place to ensure that Toblerone remains the bar people have loved for generations. While the setting may differ, the chocolate is still produced under strict standards, and the commitment to quality remains central to the brand’s identity.
Final Thoughts
So, where is Toblerone made? The answer is both Switzerland and Slovakia. Although the original factory in Bern remains in operation, Toblerone production now also takes place in Bratislava as part of a wider manufacturing strategy. While this has brought about changes to the packaging and labelling, the chocolate itself continues to reflect the heritage and flavour that made it a global favourite. Whether made in the Swiss Alps or Slovakia, each bar still carries the spirit of the mountain it was inspired by.
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