The Development Bakery
Where craftmanship meets innovation
At the Development Bakery, new projects arrive almost daily. Here, a select team of bakers not only master their craft to perfection but also delve deeply into the world of recipes and raw materials. Their mission: to create bespoke solutions tailored to individual customer requirements and the ever-evolving demands of the market. A behind-the-scenes look reveals just how much expertise, passion and precision go into every product – and why true baking expertise is about far more than simply following recipes.
The Development Bakery is much more than a traditional test kitchen. “We are not just users or developers; we cover the entire process,” emphasises Ignaz Haider, head of the department. His team is made up of specialists who are thoroughly familiar with both the craft and the raw materials processed at backaldrin. With the necessary technical knowledge and the ability to put it into practice, they are able to create innovative products.
A particular focus lies in developing recipes that are precisely tailored to the needs and wishes of customers. “A large part of our work is dedicated to developing tailor-made products,” explains Haider. This involves not only accommodating individual customer requests but also responding to market trends identified through intensive research and close dialogue with the field sales team. The result: baked goods that impress both in terms of flavour and technology.
Quality Assurance at the Highest Level
Another unique feature of the Development Bakery is its comprehensive control of raw material quality. “We are the ultimate guardians, ensuring that quality never fluctuates – certainly never downwards,” Haider stresses. Every delivery of raw materials is checked immediately and only released for production once approved. This rigorous quality management is a key advantage, ensuring that backaldrin products always meet the company’s exacting standards.
The demands on the team are equally high: alongside technical skill, a finely tuned sensory awareness is essential, as many recipes are developed in small batches before being scaled up for full production. “I always say we’re the bakers’ toy kitchen,” Haider smiles. “We do a lot, but the doughs usually weigh no more than five kilos. That’s where experience and a delicate touch are needed.”
A Bespoke Solution for Every Challenge
Since its foundation, backaldrin has been committed to supporting every customer, regardless of size. It goes without saying that the Development Bakery embodies the same flexibility and dedication that have defined the company’s culture from the very beginning. “The philosophy is that the small baker has just as much of a voice as a major client,” Haider points out. Whether it’s solving technical challenges with new products or providing support for specific production issues, backaldrin offers expert advice and guidance from the initial idea right through to market launch.
In the first two months of 2026 alone, nearly 60 projects were managed, most of them running concurrently. This diversity – from major international contracts to bespoke solutions for regional bakeries – ensures constant variety and makes the work of this department truly special.
The Development Bakery is a centre of excellence where craftsmanship, scientific expertise and innovative spirit come together. It stands for the highest quality, bespoke solutions and close partnerships. Or, as Ignaz Haider – who has been with backaldrin for 25 years now – puts it: “If you’re a baker, I probably have the best job in all of Austria.”
