Läderach history
From the very beginning, our chocolate journey has been defined by delightful discovery and innovation. In 1970, Rudolf Läderach Jr. invented a new manufacturing procedure for the chocolate truffle, improving the taste and texture. Since then we have composed countless recipes that blend classic notes with modern aspirations.
1962. Founding
Chocolatier Rudolf Läderach Jr. founds his company in Glarus, at this time a small village in Switzerland, with the idea of creating a “Confectionary of Sweet Gifts”.
1970. Truffle Patent
Rudolf Läderach Jr. invents and patents the revolutionary process to manufacture thin-walled hollow balls for truffles, which makes the professional manufacture of truffles significantly easier and improves their quality.
1994. Generational Change
Rudolf Läderach Jr. hands over the company to his son, Jürg Läderach. Jürg is a visionary entrepreneur whose main focus is to create exceptional chocolate for the people.
2004. Acquisition of Merkur
Purchase of Merkur Confiserien AG in Switzerland with more than 40 branches to reach the private consumers. At this time the idea of FrischSchoggi is born, where every chocolate lover receives the piece in its desired size, broken off from the large, unique fresh-chocolate platter fresh from the bar.
2008. New Brand Image
New brand launch “Läderach – chocolatier suisse” and opening of the show confectioneries in our boutiques on Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich and Spitalgasse in Bern.
2010. Best Swiss Chocolate to the world
The expansion abroad starts: Opening of chocolate boutiques in Freiburg, Constance and Munich as well as a second Läderach chocolatier swiss shop in South Korea.
2012. Preparing the future
In May 2011, the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of our own chocolate factory in Bilten took place. We opened our own chocolate factory in Bilten in September 2012.
2018. Hand-over to the next generation
In 2018 Jürg Läderach hands over the operational responsibility of Läderach to the 3rd generation. The oldest son, Johannes is appointed as CEO of the Läderach Group. Elias takes over the responsibility as Head of Production & Innovation and further joins the Group Management Board. As well on board is the youngest son, David, who tackles the digital transformation of Läderach.
2018. World Champion of Chocolate
The world’s best chocolatier is from Switzerland. With his exceptional chocolate creations, Elias Läderach is able to beat 19 international competitors at the World Chocolate Masters 2018 in Paris. Two of his ideas that particularly impressed the jury are now available for everyone to enjoy: the Masters Tablet Caramel and the Masters Bonbon Mandarine.
2019. International Expansion
Läderach starts to open own shops in various countries across the globe, starting with USA, Canada & UK. All Läderach chocolates are handcrafted masterpieces and we will continue with this value for the quality of our products irrespective of expansion.
