Christian Kunzle – A ‘Sweet’ Tribute.

The Birmingham Civic Society was recently delighted to re-dedicate a Blue Plaque to honour Christian Kunzle, a visionary, confectionary maker and philanthropist who made his life and career in the city of Birmingham. Not only a successful business man, but a wonderful humanitarian whose kindness benefited 100’s of his workers and sick children in Birmingham.

Christian Kunzle arrived in England from his native Switzerland at the age of 17, learned the trade of confectioner and went on to work in the kitchens of the House of Commons.  In 1902 he set up his own small bake house in Snow Hill Birmingham and the following year opened a shop in the Midland Arcade – the venture was so successful that by 1905 he had moved his main manufacturing premises to 156 Broad Street.  Kunzle was a man of great humanity and when he inherited a magnificent chateau in Davos, Switzerland, he allowed his employees to use it for rest and recuperation, expenses covered and wages still paid.  In 1932 he was elected President of the Birmingham Children’s Hospital and placed his chateau at the disposal of the hospital as a holiday home for children with tuberculosis and respiratory diseases.  Originally living in the factory premises at Five Ways, he and his wife Clara moved to Ley Hill House in Northfield which he later donated to the people of Birmingham.

For many years’ a Birmingham Civic Society Blue Plaque was sited at Five Ways Shopping Centre, marking the location of the Kunzle Cake factory.  Due to extensive redevelopment in the area, the plaque was obscured from view and eventually removed from its location. On 12^th December 2024, BCS was pleased to announce it has been reinstated and has been treated to a refurbishment for the occasion.

The plaque hangs at Five Ways Birmingham – Map link https://maps.app.goo.gl/JDeERtcgq9WgtiWu6?g_st=ic

About Birmingham Civic Society

Founded in 1918, the Birmingham Civic Society has played a pivotal role in the city’s development, working on a range of projects that reflect its commitment to heritage, urban planning, public art, and fostering active citizenship. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, the Society looks forward to continuing its mission for generations to come. The Society is a member-led registered charity

To learn more about the society’s initiatives, membership, and trustee opportunities, please visit the About Us page