International pretzel firm Ditsch is set to launch a UK base - Ditsch UK - following the acquisition of WorldBake Ltd.
The move is part of the German bakery’s aim to strengthen its presence in the British and Irish market.
Ditsch was launched in 1919 and has been part of the Swiss Valora Group since 2012. Worldwide, it employs 1,200 people and offers a range of premium frozen pretzels, pretzel croissant specialties, and pizza snacks to food service providers, bakeries, the food industry, and wholesale and retail customers in more than 35 countries.
After almost two decades of partnership, WorldBake’s team and operations will transfer to Ditsch UK Ltd, with the owner Peter Hedges remaining as managing director. The new company will operate as a standalone business while retaining all established processes and customer relationships.
Ditsch says customers will see no change, with products, packaging, logistics, service and commercial agreements continuing. From 21 October 2025, orders will be handled by Ditsch UK Ltd instead of WorldBake.
Headquartered at Timson Business Centre in Northamptonshire, WorldBake was established in 2008 and supplies a range of frozen baked goods to the UK market. According to Companies House, it has around 9 employees.
“I’m truly excited about the innovation and opportunities this merger brings. Combining the strength of Ditsch with the experience of our UK team will allow us to introduce new ideas, new products and even better service for our customers,” commented Hedges.
“We’re excited to take this next step in the UK,” added Seb Gooding, CEO of B2B division of the Valora Group.
“Combining our expertise and local knowledge allows us to bring even more pretzel innovation to British and Irish customers.”
