Kent-based chocolatier Cocoba is expanding across the UK, rolling out its products through new international retail partnerships and launching its first franchise store in Maidenhead, just in time for Easter.
Cocoba started out in 2012 as a pop-up kiosk in Brent Cross Shopping Centre, serving its signature hot chocolates and handmade chocolates. Just over a year later, founder and CEO Darren Litton opened the first Cocoba Chocolate Café in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Kent – now a flagship store, renowned for its high-quality products.
With a growing international client base, particularly in the US and European markets, Cocoba is focused on expanding its global presence. The company’s products are now available in Spain, Canada and the US, and launched in Japan, Australia and South Korea last year.
In the UK, Cocoba’s chocolates can be found in major retailers, including Selfridges, John Lewis and Costco, as well as farm shops, delis and other speciality chocolate sellers nationwide.
The company recently launched a popular Gruffalo collection and, in the run up to Easter, has created the UK’s largest chocolate egg, weighing 296kg – the same weight as an adult American Black Bear. After Easter, this giant egg will be melted down to create a limited-edition range of chocolate bars, with a portion of the proceeds going to charity.
In 2015, Cocoba expanded into the manufacturing and wholesale of chocolate and its current production unit is based in Strood, Rochester.
Cocoba’s expansion has been supported by a Trade Finance loan from Lloyds, which has helped the company to purchase top-quality chocolate.
Additionally, support from UK Export Finance (UKEF), through the General Export Facility (GEF) scheme, has unlocked further funding. The business is also working with the bank to secure future asset financing to support ambitious growth plans.
Darren Litton, CEO at Cocoba Chocolate, said: “We’re thrilled to be looking at the next stage of growth in line with our plans. Our journey from a pop-up in Brent Cross to expanding our retail partnerships and opening our first franchise store in Maidenhead – we’ve laid a strong foundation for what’s to come.
“The funding from Lloyds will play a crucial role in supporting this next phase of our expansion. With this additional support, we’re able not only to purchase the finest chocolate, but also pursue our broader ambition to bring Cocoba to retailers nationwide and further into international markets.
“We look forward to sharing our love of chocolate with even more people and growing our relationship with the bank even further.”
