Premium British chocolatier and omni-channel retailer, Hotel Chocolat Group has announced the following trading update for the 13 weeks ended 31 December 2017, showing total group revenue for the period increased 15% compared to the prior year.
Retail, digital and wholesale channels all achieved growth. The business opened 10 new stores during the six months ended December, and there are now 100 stores in the UK.
Trading since December continues to be in line with management's expectations. The Board expects to announce the Group's results for the six months ended 31 December 2017 on 21 February 2018.
Angus Thirlwell, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, said, 'We performed well, our new store openings contributed 6% of our growth in the period, with the balance of the growth coming from existing stores, digital and wholesale channels.
'Constant innovation saw our largest ever seasonal range in Christmas 2017 and we maintained strong availability of products to capitalize on the last minute rush, without any excess stock overhang.
'Highlights included a successful cocoa beauty launch, with a strong story behind it; rooted in our Caribbean eco-hotel and plantation. The launch of Supermilk Pure, our first-ever no-added-sugar milk chocolate, was also very successful and resonated strongly with customers seeking wellness and authenticity without compromise.'