Hotel Chocolat reports record 10.4% UK Christmas sales, plans US expansion

Hotel Chocolat has reported record sales during the Christmas period, with a 10.4% increase year-on-year for the four weeks ending December 29. The chocolatier's Velvetiser in-store cafes saw a remarkable 33% growth in sales. Founder Angus Thirlwell attributed this success to the commitment of the retail and manufacturing teams, noting that consumers opted for quality products despite ongoing financial pressures. The company is preparing to expand its presence in the US, with plans to open two new stores in Chicago this spring, coinciding with Easter, while also launching 25 new stores across the UK this year. The US digital business is thriving, with the Velvetiser in over 100,000 American homes. Thirlwell expressed excitement about the brand's growth and the new store openings as part of a larger expansion strategy under new ownership by Mars.