Who Makes Toblerone

Toblerone is more than just a chocolate bar. It is a symbol of sweet sophistication and Alpine charm, known across the globe for its triangular peaks, creamy texture and nougat crunch. From its distinct shape to the unmistakable gold packaging, Toblerone is one of the most recognisable confectionery brands in the world. But have you ever stopped mid-bite to ask the question, who actually makes Toblerone?

The Origins of Toblerone

Toblerone was born in Switzerland in 1908, the creation of Theodor Tobler and his cousin Emil Baumann. The two worked at the Tobler confectionery company in Bern, where they combined Swiss milk chocolate with nougat, honey and almonds to create a unique new treat. The name Toblerone is a blend of Tobler and torrone, the Italian word for nougat. This clever fusion of family legacy and key ingredients gave the chocolate its identity, and the distinctive triangular shape soon followed. It was inspired, many believe, by the Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps, which remains part of the Toblerone logo to this day.

Who Owns Toblerone Today

Although Toblerone originated as a family-run business, it has since changed hands and now sits under the ownership of Mondelēz International. This multinational food and beverage company was formerly part of Kraft Foods and is known for managing a wide portfolio of iconic snack brands including Cadbury, Oreo and Milka. Mondelēz took over the Toblerone brand as part of its extensive confectionery division and has continued to produce and distribute it on a global scale.

Where Is Toblerone Made

Toblerone was traditionally manufactured in Bern, Switzerland, and for many years, this was the only production site in the world. The Bern factory and its Swiss-made status were a major part of Toblerone’s identity, with the packaging proudly featuring the label "of Switzerland." However, in recent years, the company announced a shift in some of its production to Slovakia, while still maintaining its Swiss heritage and recipe. This change sparked interest and some concern among chocolate purists, but the company has reassured fans that the chocolate’s quality, ingredients and character remain unchanged.

How Has Mondelēz Shaped the Brand

Under Mondelēz International’s ownership, Toblerone has expanded its presence beyond airport shops and gift boxes. New product lines have been introduced, including Toblerone ice cream, limited edition flavours and sharing bags. Mondelēz has maintained the original recipe and shape while also experimenting with modern tastes and formats to appeal to changing consumer preferences. These developments have helped Toblerone maintain its relevance in a competitive chocolate market without losing the charm and tradition that made it so beloved in the first place.

The Role of Branding and Global Distribution

Toblerone’s distinctive triangle shape and iconic gold wrapper with red lettering have helped the chocolate bar stand out on shelves across the world. Mondelēz’s global reach means Toblerone is now available in over 100 countries. The brand’s popularity is especially strong in travel retail, where it is often marketed as a premium souvenir or gift. Despite being owned by a global corporation, Toblerone continues to promote its Swiss identity, blending the appeal of old-world craftsmanship with modern marketing savvy.

Final Thoughts

So, who makes Toblerone? While it was originally created by Theodor Tobler in Switzerland over a century ago, today the brand is owned and manufactured by Mondelēz International. The chocolate’s iconic recipe and image have been carefully preserved, even as the brand expands globally. With its rich history, distinctive shape and enduring popularity, Toblerone remains a truly special part of the confectionery world, no matter who is at the helm.