How Herbert Mederer turned Trolli gummies into a global candy empire

Herbert Mederer, the man behind the iconic Trolli gummy bears, will turn 80 on March 17, 2026. Now living quietly in Fürth with his wife Kerstin, he remains a towering figure in the confectionery world. His bold vision turned a small family business into a global brand known for playful, colourful sweets.

Mederer took over his parents' modest confectionery company and reshaped it into the Mederer Group. Under his leadership, the firm grew into a powerhouse with 2,300 employees and annual revenue exceeding €170 million. The brand's playful philosophy—Life is far too important to be taken seriously—became its hallmark.

In 1979, he launched Trolli the Bear, transforming simple fruit gummies into a vibrant, multisensory treat. His knack for unconventional shapes and flavours defied industry norms. Beyond creativity, Mederer spotted opportunities abroad, breaking into markets where gummy sweets were barely known. By 2020, he had stepped back from daily operations but stayed connected through his four children, who now own the company. His son Gregory leads international sales, ensuring the family's legacy continues. The group exports to over 100 countries, though specific trade details remain private. Mederer's contributions extended beyond business. In 2011, he received the Federal Cross of Merit for his impact on society.

Today, the Mederer Group stands as a testament to Herbert Mederer's daring and innovation. The company's global reach and enduring popularity prove how one man's ideas reshaped an entire industry. As he approaches his 80th birthday, his influence remains as vivid as the sweets he made famous.