Hotel Chocolat shares rose on Wednesday after the company reported a strong set of sales for the Christmas period.
The premium chocolate retailer said group revenue increased 15% for 13 weeks to 30 December. Its retail, digital and wholesale channels all achieved growth over the festive period.
Hotel Chocolat also opened 15 new stores during the half-year, taking total retail locations in the UK to 117.
Overall, the group said trading since December remains in line with expectations, with the company set to report its half-year results on February 26.
Angus Thirlwell, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, said:
“This was another strong Christmas for Hotel Chocolat. Our new store openings contributed 5% of the growth in the period, with the balance coming from existing stores, digital and wholesale channels. Our wholesale partnerships were notable successes with strong growth, balancing lower margins with lighter capital investment.
He added: “Initial customer response to our new location in New York and joint venture store in Tokyo has been very encouraging, demonstrating the global appeal of the Hotel Chocolat brand and its ability to travel overseas.”
Hotel Chocolat was founded back in 1988 and is headquartered in Hertfordshire. It is the only UK company to grow its own cocoa on its own plantation.
Hotel Chocolat shares (LON:HOTC) are currently +4.44% as of 11:46AM (GMT).