The renowned wafer and chocolate manufacturer Loacker is celebrating its centenary with a clear commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company becomes a "Società Benefit" and firmly anchors ethics, sustainability and transparency in its articles of association. At the same time, Loacker publishes its first comprehensive "Impact Report".
Ulrich Zuenelli, Chairman of the Board of Directors, emphasizes the importance of this step: "2025 is a decisive moment for our commitment to a responsible future. The transition to a Società Benefit is the precursor to B Corp certification and strengthens our will to act with transparency and responsibility."
World first: OptiBake - the emission-free wafer oven
One highlight of the sustainability strategy is the "OptiBake", the world's first wafer oven with induction heating. This innovation, which was developed in collaboration with the Bühler Group, replaces gas-powered ovens and promises to revolutionize the industrial baking industry:
- no direct emissions of CO₂, carbon monoxide or nitrogen oxides.
- up to 50 % lower energy consumption.
- greater production flexibility.
The prototype was completed in 2023 and has been undergoing testing at the Loacker plant in Heinfels since May 2025. The initial results have exceeded expectations in terms of both product quality and functionality.
Sustainability in packaging and research
Loacker is also focusing on innovation in the packaging sector: a new inline printing technology makes labels superfluous and thus reduces material and waste. This "Flexible Printing Technology Development" has already won the "Best Packaging Award 2025".
Loacker is also looking to the future in research. Construction of the new research and development center (Loacker Technology Center) has begun. Andreas Loacker, Vice President of the Board of Directors and Head of the Innovation Department, explains: "It will not only be an innovation center for the development of new products, but will also help to strengthen our commitment to sustainability and combine technological progress and environmental responsibility."
With these steps, Loacker is reaffirming its heritage and positioning itself as a pioneer of more sustainable food production for future generations.
