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Fine Chocolate in the Era of COVID19

Fine chocolate companies, like other business sectors, have been negatively impacted by COVID19 in 2020.  Prior to the pandemic, craft chocolate makers such as Dandelion Chocolate, Fruition Chocolate Works, French Broad Chocolates, and LetterPress Chocolates were seeing a strong growth in demand. Mark Hamstra, a regular contributor to the Speciality Food Association (SFA), wrote about this in a recent article: Specialty Chocolate Hits a Sweet Spot

Since the pandemic, companies are adapting to changes in the marketplace by offering curbside and online sales.  They continue to innovate by exploring new sourcing prospects, creating more origin-specific bars, and working together to tackle business obstacles.

By purchasing chocolate from these companies, you are not only rewarded with quality chocolate, but you are also helping support small businesses in your community as well as farmers in cocoa producing countries.

For true chocolate enthusiasts, this is an excellent time to try your own hand at making chocolate at home.  Our member companies sell specialized equipment to help you become a chocolate chef in your own home.

By Bill Guyton

Bill Guyton is the Executive Director of the Fine Chocolate Industry Association.