Hotel Chocolat is set to open its first bakery and hot food offer, as part of the expansion of its Velvetiser Café format.
The concessions are due to arrive in August at four of the retailer’s Yorkshire sites, as its new owner Mars begins its store investment plans, The Grocer reported.
Bakery concessions will be added to the the chocolate specialist’s Harrogate, Leeds Springs and Leeds Trinity cafés, with a fourth due to arrive at its Ilkley site in September.
The sweet and savoury goods on offer have been developed in-house and are based on dishes from the Hotel Chocolat restaurant, with products ranging from a Chocolatier’s Carrot Cake to a Caribbean Chicken Curry.
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Under the move, the retailer has converted the upper floors of its Leeds Trinity shop into a bakery to make products for the new sites.
Head of Velvetiser Café Ian Mackie said: “This launch represents a significant milestone for the Velvetiser Café, as we expand our offerings to include a diverse and delectable menu inspired by our commitment to quality and innovation.
“Each item is crafted with care and precision, using the finest ingredients, sourced responsibly, reflecting our dedication to ethical and sustainable practices.”
He added: “We cannot wait for our customers to experience the unique flavours and the exceptional quality that define Hotel Chocolat.”
Hotel Chocolat has hit the expansion trail since Mars snapped up the business for £534m in November.
In May, the brand unveiled plans to open 20 stores over the next 18 months, as its investment in bricks and mortar continues.
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