The beginning of Lantmännen’s Bread Business

We’re excited to take you on a journey through the fascinating history of Lantmännen Unibake! 🍞🥐✨

This series of short articles will highlight key milestones, achievements, and moments that have shaped our company from its humble beginnings in 1974 to becoming a European leader in the bakery industry.

Building a foundation for success 

The period from 1974 to 1988 was crucial in laying the groundwork for what would become Lantmännen Unibake. During these formative years, the company achieved several key milestones that set the stage for future growth and innovation. 

Establishing the bread business 

In 1974, Lantmännen, back then already a well-established agricultural cooperative in Sweden, decided to diversify its operations by entering the bread business. This move was part of a broader strategy to create an integrated value chain from farm to table, ensuring quality and sustainability throughout the process. 

Acquisition of Skogaholm (1974) 

One of the first significant milestones was the acquisition of Skogaholm, a renowned fresh bread bakery group in Sweden. This acquisition was instrumental in establishing Lantmännen's presence in the bakery market. Skogaholm brought with it a strong brand reputation and a loyal customer base, providing a solid foundation for future expansion. 

Introduction of Korvbrödsbagarn (1979) 

In 1979, Lantmännen introduced the Korvbrödsbagarn brand, which quickly became a household name. Known for its high-quality hot dog and hamburger buns, Korvbrödsbagarn capitalized on the growing popularity of fast food in Sweden. This brand played a pivotal role in increasing market share and establishing Lantmännen as a significant player in the food industry. 

Early product innovations

• Lantmännen introduced a range of whole grain bread products, catering to the increasing demand for healthier food options. 
• Recognizing the growing need for convenience, the company developed ready-to-eat and easy-to-prepare bakery items, appealing to busy consumers. 

Laying the foundation for future growth 

By the end of 1988, Lantmännen had laid a robust foundation for its bakery business. The strategic acquisitions, product innovations, and market expansions during this period were critical in establishing the company's position in the bakery industry. These early milestones set the stage for the significant growth and consolidation that would follow in the subsequent decades.