
Hotel Chocolat saw record UK sales over the key Christmas period, as it geared up to open a series of new stores.
Sales at the business soared 10.4% year on year for the 4 weeks to 29 December, with the 21 and 23 December being its busiest shopping days both online and in-store.
The chocolatier’s Velvetiser in-store cafes also grew 33% year on year.
Hotel Chocolat founder and global CEO Angus Thirlwell said: “This Christmas was our most successful to date and testament to the dedication of our manufacturing-distributing and retailing teams in particular.
“Despite consumers continuing to feel the pinch, they went for quality this Christmas and we posted strong sales across our accessible price points from the £5.95 chocolate-filled table cracker right up to our £200 Velvetiser experience hamper.”
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The results come as the chocolate manufacturer prepares to launch 25 new stores across the UK this year, including its largest ever site in Manchester this spring.
Additionally, the retailer is set to roll out its first stores in Chicago, opening two initial stores this spring.
Back in May, Hotel Chocolat unveiled plans to open 20 new stores over the next 18 months, as it continues to invest in bricks and mortar.
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