After leaving the factory

The “real ones” now come from the Czech Republic

The small golden chocolate ball is now produced abroad. Posters referring to Austria as the country of production can still be found in several places in the city of Mozart.(Bild: Andreas Tröster)

Mirabell Mozartkugeln will roll off the production line in the former "Eastern Bloc" in future following the closure of Salzburg Schokolade

On December 6, 2024, a "real Salzburg Mozartkugel" rolled off the production line in Grödig for the last time. The confectionery giant Mondelez had withdrawn the license for the Mirabell balls from Salzburg. The KEX Group was forced to close the Salzburg Schokolade factory. Not even three years after being rescued from bankruptcy.

Confectionery giant keeps a low profile
There are still posters advertising the "real Salzburgers" in many places in the province and city of Salzburg. The most important claim: made in Austria. The only catch, however, is that this is obviously no longer true. Although there are still stocks and remaining stocks with the "Made in Grödig" seal, production has long since been outsourced elsewhere by Mondelez. Officially and in response to repeated inquiries, the company is keeping a low profile. A spokeswoman merely referred to production within the chocolate producer's European network.

According to reports, the Mozartkugeln, which are the only ones to bear the "genuine Salzburger" label, are likely to be produced in the Czech Republic in future. Mondelez operates three plants there. These include the largest European cookie factory with 1000 employees.