Congratulations to Debbie Carter and her team at Chocolate Craft for being awarded the Best Small Business of the Year award. Their latest press release below.
The much anticipated, inaugural South Coast Business Awards was held recently at the De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel in Southampton. Established to celebrate the very best of local business talent and their contribution to the district economy of the south coast region, the awards attracted over 100 entrants and a 350-strong audience at the award ceremony.
Unsurprisingly for a county brimming with small rural businesses, the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year received the most entries and was won by CHOCOLATE CRAFT, the artisan chocolate company based in Old Alresford.
Upon proudly receiving the award from the Guest of Honour John Sergeant, Debbie Carter, business founder & owner commented, “we are thrilled to receive such county-wide recognition and feel that this is an award to dedicate to all of our loyal team and customers who have helped to make the CHOCOLATE CRAFT the well established brand that it is today. Without doubt the award will now give us the impetus to drive the business to even greater heights”.
Summarising the keys to CHOCOLATE CRAFT’s success, Maureen Frost of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and sponsor of the Small Business of the Year Award said:
“This business was established in 2004 and has grown steadily over the past seven years, however this award is about small business of the year. The last 12 months have seen this business make a step change, with turnover increasing by approximately 50 per cent, and an impressive client list including Fortnum and Mason and Harvey Nichols. The strategic route to market was one of one-step distribution, so by choosing key retailers and dealing directly, this has built their brand in a sustainable and organic way.
Collaborating with key groups and corporate local hotels, and specialist food shops they have developed their products and re-branded to appeal to both the individual and the corporate market. A clear marketing strategy has reaped dividends, and a clear plan for growth is in place to build upon their product at home as a new distribution model. Constant innovation is evident and the company demonstrates commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility by using sustainable packaging, local ingredients and by supporting local charities.
A small business that truly stands out in a competitive market place.”
A range of CHOCOLATE CRAFT products can be found in fine food stores across the county, along with Harvey Nichols and Fortnum & Mason. An even broader range of chocolate delights can be bought via home parties delivered by a growing team of CHOCOLATE CRAFT at home consultants.