Hotel Chocolat, the London-listed retailer set to open its first cafe and store in Dublin next month, saw its profits double last year after it launched “chocolate lock-ins” and products that catered to more health-conscious consumers.
The group saw pre-tax profits rise 100 per cent to £11.2 million (€12.7 million) in the year to July, while revenue rose 12 per cent to £105.2 million (€119.9 million).
‘Hedonistic’
Hotel Chocolat pointed to the success of “experiences”, one of which includes so called “chocolate lock-ins”, where small groups of ticketed customers are allowed into stores after closing time for “tutored tasting” and “nocturnal private shopping”.
It also said its “hedonistic” chocolate is made with “more cocoa, less sugar”, which is helping meet demand for healthier treats.
“Given the encouraging performance of our retail and internet channels, along with the pipeline of opportunities ahead of us, we are confident of further growth,” said co-founder and chief executive Angus Thirlwell.
– (Press Association)
