Chocolate firm signs London deal (From Hampshire Chronicle)

Chocolate firm signs London deal

12:40pm Thursday 6th December 2007 in News

A CHOCOLATEUR from Alresford has wrapped up a sweet deal with a famous London food store.

The Alresford Chocolate Company has secured an order from Piccadilly-based Fortnum and Mason for 150 of its handmade lollies. The chocolates, which have three separate designs, all exclusive to the 300-year-old store, will be delivered in time for Valentine's Day.

Debbie Carter, owner of the chocolate company, said Fortnums had approached her out of the blue. She said: "They heard about us through someone else. We didn't do a sales pitch - they rang us.

"We are delighted to join forces with a company some 297 years older than ourselves, and look forward to developing a successful business partnership with them in the months and years ahead."

Mrs Carter added the deal was a one-off with a view to stocking more of their products in the future.

Meanwhile the company's newest line - Christmas pudding chocolates - have sold at record levels, with more than 500 boxes being shifted since their launch in October.

For more information visit www.chocolatecraft.co.uk