Hotel Chocolat celebrates 16.2% uplift in LFL sales


Hotel Chocolat Group has announced the following trading update for the 13 weeks ended 25 December 2016, showing total group revenue for the period increased 16.2% compared to the prior year.

The premium British chocolatier and omni-channel retailer has seen retail growth driven by increases in footfall and items per basket, with customers also choosing to buy more higher-priced gift items.

The digital business showed similar momentum, and in January a new website launched; improvements include optimisation for smartphones and tablets, a bespoke 'gift creator' service for delivered gifts, and better integration of the tasting club subscription service.

The firm opened 10 new stores during the six months ended December, and now has 90 stores in the UK. Seven of the new stores included the signature drinks offer of Hot Chocolat, coffee-chocolate and light cocoa infusions.

Trading since December continues to be in line with management's expectations.

Angus Thirlwell, Co-Founder and CEO, said, 'The growing strength of the Hotel Chocolat brand has enabled us to perform well. Our seasonal ranges included many new innovations and our cafe drinks offer adds a new dimension to our experience.'

'Being a UK manufacturer gave us the flexibility to maintain good stock availability right up to the end of the season. I would like to thank the whole team for their energy, enthusiasm and tireless commitment to delivering on our plans.'