Our History

1912

Carl Brandt founded the “Märkische Zwieback- und Keksfabrik” (Märkische Rusks and Biscuit Factory) in Hagen-Haspe, Westphalia

1929

The factory’s production methods were mechanized with the use of a self-developed and patented Zwieback cutting machine. The first fresh-keeping packaging featuring a child’s head was patented and introduced.

1940

The company “Zugspitze,” a biscuit and chocolate factory AG in Landshut, was acquired.

1965

The inventor of industrial Zwieback production passed away at the age of 79. His wife, Betty Brandt (59), took over the management. She led the company’s expansion for nearly 20 years and was regarded as the company’s social conscience.

1984

After the passing of Mrs. Betty Brandt, Carl-Jürgen Brandt became the sole proprietor of the company.

1995

The “Brandt Keks-Sparte and Gottena” is sold to Bahlsen.

1996

A partnership was established with the Finnish crispbread manufacturer, Vaasamills, introducing Finnish crispbread under the brand name “Finn Crisp.“ in Germany.

2001

Since May 2001, “Burger Knäcke GmbH + Co. KG” officially became part of the Brandt Group. This traditional facility is Germany’s first-ever crispbread factory.

2012

With the relocation of the Zwieback production from Hagen to Thuringia, Brandt inaugurated the new Zwieback factory in Ohrdruf. It is considered the most modern Zwieback production facility in Europe. The well loved Brandt-Markenzwieback is now available in a convenient foldable box. 100th anniversary of the company – both Brandt sons joined the business

2014

Brandt acquired a majority stake in the chocolate confectionery “Schoko-Dragee GmbH” located in Rhede, NRW.

2017

The Austrian Zwieback brand “Feldbacher” was acquired by Brandt

2018

Following the passing of Carl-Jürgen Brandt, Carl-Heinz and Christoph Brandt took over the management, leading the company into the future together as the third generation.

2019 – Today

Continuing to invest in expertise and capacity, Brandt inaugurated a state-of-the-art hollow figure production facility in Landshut. Additionally, a new production line for Knäckebrot started operating in Burg. These advancements further strengthened the company’s position and capabilities.