// Hotel Chocolat closes online operations in the US to focus on the UK
// In July, Hotel Chocolat revealed plans to scale back investment in its US operations
Hotel Chocolat has officially closed its online operations in the US months to focus on the UK as its core market.
The confectionery retailer‘s decision means it will cease direct-to-consumer sales in the US and close all of its in-country warehousing and fulfilment support arrangements.
In July, Hotel Chocolat revealed plans to scale back investment in its US operations in favour of exploring more wholesale opportunities.
Subscribe to Retail Gazette for free
Sign up here to get the latest retail news straight into your inbox each morning
Hotel Chocolat said it was pulling investment in the US to focus the group’s strategic efforts on “the more profitable parts of the business”, such as its home UK market.
On July 26, the retailer’s Japanese joint venture secured court approval to undergo restructuring.
The venture is seeking to restructure, pursuant to acquiring new sources of financing.
Hotel Chocolat expects to post a loss for the year to June 26 after taking action amid the wider economic uncertainty.
