Mondelēz International has confirmed the discontinuation of Toblerone Dark (360g) bars in the UK, ending a 55-year run for the popular dark chocolate variant.
The confectionery giant said the decision forms part of its strategy to adapt its product range to shifting consumer tastes while supporting business and retail growth.
“We continuously adapt our product range to ensure it meets changing tastes whilst supporting growth for our customers and business, and as a result made the difficult decision to discontinue our Toblerone Dark bars in the UK,” a Mondelēz spokesperson said.
While acknowledging the disappointment some consumers may feel, the company emphasised its ongoing investment in the Toblerone brand.
“New for this Easter, we've launched our Toblerone Edgy Egg with Truffles, while we continue to offer an array of delicious Toblerone bars and Truffles to be enjoyed with family and friends,” the spokesperson added.
First introduced in 1908, Toblerone’s dark chocolate variant debuted in 1969, featuring a 50% cocoa recipe. The brand’s name combines founder Theodor Tobler’s surname with ‘torrone’, the Italian word for honey-and-almond nougat, a key ingredient. Its distinctive triangular shape is said to be inspired by Switzerland’s Matterhorn peak, though its exact origins remain debated.
The announcement comes amid significant challenges for chocolate manufacturers globally, with cocoa prices reaching record highs in December. According to Office for National Statistics figures, chocolate prices increased by 13.6 per cent in the year to March, putting pressure on manufacturers.
This is not the first time Toblerone has made headlines. In 2023, Mondelēz removed the Matterhorn imagery from packaging after relocating some production outside Switzerland. In 2016, consumers expressed outrage when Mondelēz increased the gaps between Toblerone's triangular chunks, effectively reducing the amount of chocolate.
Meanwhile, consumer preferences are shifting towards novel flavours, such as ‘Dubai chocolate’ – a pistachio cream and knafeh-filled bar inspired by Middle Eastern desserts.
