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Flawil Chocolate Factory

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Flawil Chocolate Factory (Switzerland)

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The chocolate factory in Flawil is the headquarters of the traditional Swiss manufacturer Maestrani, which has been producing the finest confectionery for over 160 years. Founded in 1852 in St. Gallen, the company later moved its location to Flawil to expand production capacity. Today, the factory is primarily known for the Munz and Minor brands, which have a firm place in Swiss retail and the export market. A significant milestone in the site's recent economic history was the opening of the 'Schokolarium' in 2017, an interactive visitor center that provides insights into sustainable cocoa sourcing and modern manufacturing processes. Maestrani places high value on quality assurance and Swiss milk, making the company an important buyer for regional agriculture. The factory combines traditional recipes with state-of-the-art filling and packaging systems to meet the high demands of the international food market.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-104913171918141040
Rain mm9474929114113914414610310087102

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
Positioned firmly within Eastern Switzerland's rich manufacturing heritage, this significant industrial plant specializes in crafting high-quality chocolate products that act as globally recognized export articles.
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Visiting
Large-scale production floors often strictly limit direct public access to maintain paramount hygiene standards, though visitors can generally experience the brand through dedicated factory stores or visitor centers.
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Where to view it
The characteristic commercial architecture of the facility is most easily appreciated from the immediate street level in Flawil, where the enticing aroma of roasted cocoa frequently permeates the surrounding neighborhood air.
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Local products
Chocolate lovers typically have the excellent opportunity to purchase an array of freshly manufactured sweet confections, exclusive seasonal specialties, and discounted factory seconds directly from the adjacent outlet shop.
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Active season
The busiest periods of manufacturing undoubtedly occur in the long lead-ups to major festive seasons like Christmas and Easter, making the adjacent shops exceptionally animated during these times.
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Nearby
Incorporating this delectable stop fits wonderfully into a broader excursion through the historically rich canton of St. Gallen, or seamlessly complements a relaxed journey towards the photogenic Appenzell region.

Geography

Coordinates
47.41470, 9.18340

Facts

  • Founded in 1852 by Ludovico Maestrani in St. Gallen.
  • The production was moved to Flawil in 2003.
  • The Schokolarium opened in 2017 for over 150,000 annual visitors.
  • Maestrani produces about 3,500 tons of chocolate per year.
  • Exports chocolate products to over 40 countries worldwide.
  • Uses 100% certified sustainable cocoa in its production.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

FlawilFlawil<1 km · EExplore →
UzwilUzwil5 km · NWExplore →
GossauGossau5 km · EExplore →
HerisauHerisau8 km · SEExplore →
WilWil11 km · NWExplore →
Abbey District of St. GallenAbbey District of St. Gallen15 km · EExplore →
WattwilWattwil15 km · SWExplore →
Rauhenstein CastleRauhenstein Castle15 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Flawil Chocolate Factory (6)

Katholische Kirche

The Catholic church in Flawil is a church building in the canton of St. Gallen.

Ortsmuseum Flawil im Lindengut🏛 museum

The local museum Flawil im Lindengut showcases local history.

Reformierte Kirche

The Reformed church in Flawil is a church building in the canton of St. Gallen.

Burgstelle Gielen-Glattburg🏰 castle

Two moats and wall remains on terraces, ancestral castle of the Giel family, mentioned in 1226, destroyed in 1485.

Reformierte Kirche Oberglatt

The Reformed church in Oberglatt is a church building in the canton of St. Gallen.

Isenhammer

Isenhammer is a nature reserve in Flawil.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit the chocolate factory?
Yes, Maestrani's 'Chocolarium' provides an interactive world of experience for visitors.
What are the opening hours?
Usually daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (weekends until 5:00 PM).
Can you make your own chocolate?
In workshops, you can create and decorate your own chocolate bars.
Is the Chocolarium family-friendly?
Yes, it is good for children with many interactive stations and games.
Is there a factory shop?
Yes, in the shop you can buy Maestrani, Minor, and Munz products.
Flawil Chocolate Factory: where is it located?
Flawil Chocolate Factory is located in Switzerland.
Flawil Chocolate Factory: what is there to see?
Highlights include Katholische Kirche, Ortsmuseum Flawil im Lindengut, Reformierte Kirche.
Flawil Chocolate Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Flawil Chocolate Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The chocolate factory in Flawil is the headquarters of the traditional Swiss manufacturer Maestrani, which has been producing the finest confectionery for over 160 years.
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