Best Bakery Quality According to Own Recipes

Interview with Wolfgang Bauer, Managing Director of Bäckerei-Café-Konditorei Bauer GmbH

Bäckerei-Café-Konditorei Bauer GmbH Wolfgang Bauer
Committed to quality: Wolfgang Bauer, Karin Bauer, and Reinhard Bauer (from left)

Bäckerei-Cafe-Konditorei Bauer GmbH can look back on a tradition that spans almost 120 years. The Mühlbacher company is a prime example of artisan tradition and regional quality. Since 1908, the family business has been known for baking artistry based on its own recipes, which have been refined over generations. With great attention to detail, high-quality products, and eleven branches in Salzburger Land, Bauer is a major player in the region.

The bakery-cafe-confectionery Bauer GmbH in Mühlbach will soon be celebrating its 120th anniversary. The company was founded by Wolfgang Bauer, whose great-grandson of the same name runs the business today. "In the 1980s, my father Wolfgang Bauer Sr. set new standards," says the CEO. "Instead of using the baking mixes that were trendy at the time, he developed his own recipes. This laid the groundwork for the quality of our products today." The Bauer bakery still works entirely with its own recipes, distinguishing itself from other bakeries.

Regional, reliable, good

A major step in the company's development was the opening of the first branch in St. Johann. This brought greater attention and a growing clientele. Today, the bakery operates eleven branches throughout the state of Salzburg, employs 88 people, and achieves an impressive annual turnover of 7.5 million EUR. "Especially during the Coronavirus pandemic, the importance of regional producers became apparent," adds Wolfgang Bauer. "Customers realized that the quality and craftsmanship of local bakeries cannot be replaced by supermarkets." 

Bakery-Café-Confectionery Bauer GmbH Cakes
Bauer's Viennese Marble Bundt Cake is a delicious classic
Bauer GmbH Cream Bakery-Café-Confectionery
There is a lot of handiwork in the fine truffles and chocolate creations from Bauer

Popular with Young and Old

Today, cafés and bakeries offer people the opportunity to meet and enjoy good products again. Bread, buns, ice cream, doughnuts, and high-quality coffee are staple and important components of the offerings. They are complemented by many other delicacies, lactose-free and vegan products. Seasonal specialties are also included. In addition, there is cultivated hospitality: "The homely atmosphere and friendly service in our branches ensure that customers of all ages feel comfortable," knows the managing director.

Progress and Growth

There is no standing still at Bauer Bakery-Café-Confectionery. The new merchandise management system facilitates internal processes and the ordering processes for the 140 delivery customers. An extension for 2025 is already planned, and new branch locations are continuously being sought. Besides innovative recipes and products, training young specialists remains a central concern. For Wolfgang Bauer, it's clear: "If I wouldn't eat the product myself, it doesn't leave the house." Quality, trust, and personal commitment are the basis of his success – values that should also shape the company in the future.