History

1819

The earliest documented sales of Cailler products appear—marking the beginning of a delicious legacy in Swiss chocolate history started by François-Louis Cailler.

1875

Daniel Peter, husband of Fanny Cailler (yes, the daughter of François-Louis Cailler, just so you know!), is bursting with creative ideas. After several years of candle production, he starts to take an interest in chocolate. In 1867, he launches the company "Peter-Cailler & Cie" with one idea in mind: to make chocolate accessible to everyone. Then, in 1875, inspired by his neighbor Henri Nestlé's invention of milk flour, he has a revelation! He mixes cocoa and condensed milk to create a deliciously sweet powder. And there you have it, the birth of milk chocolate! A true delight that has won over hearts and taste buds!

1898

François-Louis Cailler's grandson, Alexandre-Louis Cailler, opens a new factory and quietly sets the stage for large-scale production of milk and hazelnut chocolate—marking a key step in Cailler’s growing chocolate story

1904

Daniel Peter and Charles-Amédée Kohler team up to create the Société Générale Suisse de Chocolats Peter et Kohler Réunis. Around the same time, Cailler begins crafting its own Branches, with the first mention of this now-iconic treat appearing in Kohler’s recipe book back in 1896. A small note in history, a big step for chocolate lovers.

1907

Just before the outbreak of the First World War, Cailler expanded its chocolate range with the launch of Fémina — an extra-fine selection of pralines presented in an elegant gift box.

1911

As the chocolate market rapidly expands, the companies Peter (led by Daniel Peter) and Kohler team up with Cailler to create a new company: Peter, Cailler, Kohler, Chocolats Suisses S. A. Their mission? Share their delicious Swiss chocolate with the world! In parallel, Alexandre-Louis Cailler brings a unique twist to milk chocolate thanks to a new manufacturing process. This special method, paired with condensed milk made from the Alpine Gruyère region, gives Cailler chocolate its signature rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. And guess what? We're still using this same magical method today!

1923

Cailler launches Frigor, a delicate creation imagined by in-house confectioner Charles Panchaud. Crafted with care and expertise, it quietly begins its journey toward becoming a beloved classic.

1929

Peter, Cailler, Kohler, and Chocolats Suisses S.A. come together under the Nestlé Group—marking a meaningful step toward shaping the future of Swiss chocolate, together.

2010

The grand opening of Maison Cailler – La Chocolaterie Suisse invites visitors into a world where chocolate comes to life through all five senses. From the origins of cocoa to the art of chocolate-making, it’s an immersive journey that now welcomes over 400,000 guests each year—a true celebration of Swiss chocolate heritage.

2017

Cailler revisits its iconic milk chocolate recipe—now with more milk, more cocoa, and less sugar—to better reflect evolving tastes and bring even more pleasure to every bite.

2025

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of milk chocolate, Cailler unveils its brand new universe with a mission: to bring even more joy and smiles with every bite!