From ice cream to gingerbread: The success story of Manke & Coldewey

Manke & Coldewey, a family business with a long tradition, has developed from its beginnings as an ice cream manufacturer in 1922 into a versatile gourmet supplier. Today, the 4th generation of makers not only impress with handmade Elisen gingerbread, but also with a product range that extends from roasted almonds to quality popcorn and gingerbread cream liqueur. The success story of this North German company combines traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity - and shows how a summer treat became a winter treat.

The roots of the family business lie deep in Bremen tradition. Founded in 1922, it all began with the production of ice cream, which was particularly popular at fairs in northern Germany. Over the generations, the family business has continued to develop, with the values and passion for high-quality products always taking center stage.

In winter, it was too cold for ice cream, which caused boredom in the family business and a different product was needed

Turning point and innovation

A decisive moment in the history of Manke & Coldewey was the turn to winter specialties. As it was naturally a little too cold for ice cream in the cold season and the family was bored during the winter season, a different product had to be found that would appeal to them and their customers in Bremen.

How, when and where Mrs. Eismacher had the inspiration can no longer be traced exactly - what is clear is that Mrs. Eismacher wondered why there was no fresh gingerbread in Bremen. Inspired by the family's many years of experience and love of experimenting, Mrs. Eismacher baked gingerbread in the middle of summer and presented it to the family. A summer experiment that had nothing at all to do with ice cream and immediately won over the family. The idea of making fresh, handmade gingerbread was born and laid the foundation for what is now an immense product line. A product line that is based on tradition but continues to move with the times.

Quality craftsmanship and creativity

At Manke & Coldewey, the focus is on handcrafted production. The products are made exclusively with natural ingredients and according to traditional recipes. The Elisen gingerbread in particular is characterized by its flour-free and therefore gluten-free recipe. This is reflected not only in the taste, but also in the juiciness of the gingerbread.

Incidentally, only a maximum of 10% flour may be used in Elisen Lebkuchen, which already sets them apart from ordinary Lebkuchen, which can sometimes contain more. This extra step in Manke & Coldewey's recipe clearly sets their gingerbread apart from industrially produced varieties.

Just a selection of the constantly evolving range: handmade Elisen gingerbread, roasted almonds, quality popcorn, gingerbread cream liqueur and cranberry butter confectionery

In addition to gingerbread, the company also offers other creations such as roasted almonds, GoldCorn popcorn and cranberry butter confectionery - each product is unique due to the craftsmanship, reflecting the creativity and heritage of the family business.

What tastes good in winter also tastes good before and after

Manke & Coldewey's versatile range is available all year round. From Elisen gingerbread to various types of roasted almonds, different flavours of GoldCorn popcorn, which is caramelized after being sieved twice, to - yes, now it's getting delicious and creative - cranberry butter confectionery. The family business focuses on continuous innovation. The team comes up with something new every year. Reinventing and developing is part of the company's DNA. Not everything that is thought up and tried out ends up in the permanent range - which shows that trial and error is very important here and that the new creations have to satisfy the discerning palates of customers.

Reinventing and evolving is part of the company's DNA

The success story of Manke & Coldewey is an impressive example of how a family business masters the changing times. With a clear focus on quality and craftsmanship and an openness to new ideas and creativity, the team has continuously developed its products without losing its roots. The combination of traditional craftsmanship and innovative ideas makes Manke & Coldewey a special player in the northern German culinary landscape - a craft business that will certainly continue to impress us with its passion and creativity in the future.