For nine decades, Hans Brunner GmbH has stood for top quality and precise craftsmanship in the field of chocolate moulds. Based in the idyllic town of Glonn, about 30 kilometers southeast of Munich, the company is now a true global player while remaining firmly rooted in its local community.
By Von Dr. Jörg Häseler
In 2024, a significant change came to the leadership team: Christoph Schwaiger assumed the role of managing partner, succeeding his father, Rudi Schwaiger. Since as early as 2006, Markus Gebhart has brought his expertise to the company as managing director, playing a key role in shaping its strategic direction. Together with his sister, Stephanie Schwaiger, who complements the management team as a procurator, Christoph Schwaiger focuses on continuity and innovation to steer the company on its successful course.
The success story of Hans Brunner GmbH began in 1935 when Hans Brunner and Thomas Hauner registered a business for confectionery supplies in Munich. Before long, space became tight, and the founders found a new home in Glonn. In a former stable lovingly renovated by the first employees, they laid the foundation for a company that to this day symbolises precision, teamwork, and a spirit of innovation.
Hans Brunner GmbH combines tradition with a strong commitment to the future. For more than 20 years, the company has been focusing on sustainability. The recycling of used moulds into granulate for non-food applications was introduced in recent years. The company also demonstrates pioneering spirit when it comes to energy. In 2008, the first photovoltaic system was installed and has been continuously expanded. Over 15 years ago, the switch to climate neutral green electricity was made. Together with other measures, these efforts have reduced the company’s CO2 footprint by an impressive 90%.
With customers around the globe, Hans Brunner GmbH has proven to be crisis-resistant. The company navigated the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic without laying off any employees. Today, sales are even above pre-crisis levels.
A special chapter in the company’s history is the establishment of the Brazilian subsidiary, "Brunner do Brasil“, near Porto Alegre in 2019. Despite the difficult circumstances during the pandemic, the location developed positively from the very beginning. The demand for large Easter eggs, which became a tradition in Brazil thanks to Italian immigrants, contributed significantly to its success.
Hans Brunner GmbH delights chocolatiers and international confectionery companies alike with its highly precise chocolate moulds. A highlight is the Chocovidual moulds line, which allows for individual designs and logos in impressive quality available even in small quantities at an attractive price.
Exclusive innovations are also a hallmark of the company: The hologram technology makes it possible to refine chocolates with fascinating 3D effects. Another new development is the contrast satin finish, enabling patterns or logos to be applied to the vertical side of chocolates a true eye-catcher for discerning customers.
Looking to the future, the company is venturing into the field of jelly moulds. Particularly in the USA, Hans Brunner GmbH sees significant growth opportunities, especially in the area of nutritional supplements.
An ongoing industry-wide issue is the handling of Bisphenol A. New EU regulations pose major challenges for chocolate mould manufacturers. “We are working hard on innovative solutions,” emphasises Christoph Schwaiger. “Our customers can rely on us to ensure the highest food safety and quality standards.”
For 90 years, Hans Brunner GmbH has been synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation. Firmly rooted in Glonn and successful worldwide, the company remains a reliable partner for customers of all sizes – from artisanal chocolatiers to international confectionery companies. With a clear commitment to sustainability and future viability, Hans Brunner GmbH will continue to set new standards in the decades to come.
