Thorntons closes 120 stores

Monday 11th July

Thorntons have announced a strategy review which re-positions the business over the next three years and includes the closure of at least 120 stores. As part of the restructure Thorntons are developing a less seasonal business with more gifting launches and a new range of boxed chocolates for 2012. They’re also planning on improving on the in-store experience both in terms of the look of the shops and customer experience.

Much of the publicity in the press of Thorntons demise has…

Paul a Young Fine Chocolates open third chocolaterie

Monday 11th July

Paul a Young Fine Chocolates has opened up a third chocolaterie in the heart of Soho. The new shop has become their flagship chocolaterie, it looks gorgeous and has become an instant hit with the Soho regulars and celebrities alike. Paul designed the shop himself and all the furniture is reclaimed, recycled or upcycled and includes a striking wooden alter. Paul will be offering his famous, award-winning classics including his acclaimed sea salted caramels, marmite and kalamansi sitting alongside…

Chocolate Festival this weekend at Southbank

Thursday 9th December

The Chocolate Festival returns to Southbank Centre this Christmas time with even more chocolatiers and Christmas gift ideas. Just in time for Christmas shopping, the popular festival runs from Friday 10th– Sunday 12th December. This event will feature stands from award winning chocolatiers such as William Curley, Damian Allsop, Paul Wayne Gregory and Co-Couture, renowned chocolate companies such as Rococo, Valrhona and Hotel Chocolat, as well as new companies such as Choki of Brockley and Simply…

Chococo Expands

Thursday 14th October

On Thursday 7th October Chococo, the award-winning Swanage based chocolatier, opened its new chocolate factory, with everyone involved toasting the new space with a mug of Chococo’s scrumptious hot chocolate. 

The company, which was set up by husband and wife team Claire and Andy Burnet, started in Swanage, but after eight years of growth it needed to find more space. So, from early October, the making, packing and mail order teams are now based at their new facility, christened…

Eric Lanlard recipe and top baking tips

Wednesday 13th October

Cake maker to the stars Eric Lanlard has recently launched his latest book, Home Bake published by Mitchell Beazley and has kindly shared with us his chocolate fondant recipe and his top tips for baking with chocolate.

ERIC LANLARD’S HOT CHOCOLATE FONDANT
For me this is the easiest, almost foolproof, chocolate fondant recipe. The secret’s in the timing, don’t guess. Set your kitchen timer and you’ll be able to serve your friends the most tasty, warm, chocolatey…