Retail News CRM

Tag: Chocolate

  • Neuhaus launches praline and coffee food pairing ritual

    Neuhaus launches praline and coffee food pairing ritual

    Neuhaus has launched its first praline and coffee food pairing ritual in Asia in an exclusive Travel Retail partnership with Gebr. Heinemann. The pairing is solely available in selected Sweet Dreams by Heinemann shops at Hong Kong International Airport.

    The Neuhaus Coffee & Pralines Collection showcases six pralines and two types of coffee from Brazil and Colombia.

    Neuhaus’ master chocolatiers have created two sets of pralines to be paired with coffee. Each set comprises three pralines created to match with a single origin coffee from either Columbia or Brazil.

    DELICATE TO INTENSE

    The three pralines are eaten one after the other in a specific order building from delicate to intense together with coffee from the same region.

    Available in two versions, The Coffee & Pralines Collection contains 36 pralines and two 100-g packets of Brazil and Colombia single origin coffees — enough for 12 coffee and praline rituals.

    The Origin Box contains 24 pralines. Both presentations boxes are simple with a luxurious finish. They both contain a leaflet that provides full details of the production process and ideal coffee ritual.

    Alexandra Bevernage, Global Travel Retail Director Neuhaus Chocolates said: “This first and exclusive launch in Asia of our unique Coffee Pairing collection underscores the importance of the region to Neuhaus.

    NATURAL FIT

    “Heinemann is one of the most forward-looking companies in the region, making the collaboration with Neuhaus, who invented the Belgian praline, a natural fit. We are developing more exciting projects and will continue to work on building strong offerings in Asia so as to continue leading the premium chocolate category.”

    Johannes Sammann, COO Heinemann Asia Pacific added: “We are very excited to partner with Neuhaus for this exclusive launch in Asia. The unique coffee pairing collection from Neuhaus is definitely the first of its kind and its launch in Asia through our Sweet Dreams by Heinemann stores at Hong Kong International Airport underscores how important Hong King is for the confectionery category.

    “As we continue to grow this category in Hong Kong, we will be bringing many more of such exclusive launches.”

    Lees ook:

  • Whittaker’s Unveils New Peanut & Caramel Brittle Chocolate: A Sustainable Delight Now Available In Australia

    Whittaker’s Unveils New Peanut & Caramel Brittle Chocolate: A Sustainable Delight Now Available In Australia

    Whittaker’s, the famed chocolatier, has introduced a new chocolate block called Peanut & Caramel Brittle. This delicious new concoction is produced exclusively in the company’s solitary factory situated in Porirua, New Zealand.

    A Delicious Symphony of Flavours and Textures

    Weighing in at 250g, the Peanut & Caramel Brittle chocolate block offers a unique blend of smooth milk chocolate, freshly roasted peanuts, and creamy salted caramel brittle. This combination results in an irresistible blend of various textures and flavours that is sure to delight any chocolate enthusiast.

    A Conscientious Approach to Chocolate Making

    Each Peanut & Caramel Brittle block is entirely free from palm oil. Additionally, the cocoa utilized in its creation is 100% certified by the Rainforest Alliance. This ensures that each mouthful not only delights your taste buds, but also supports sustainable cocoa farming practices.

    Holly Whittaker, the co-Chief Operating Officer at Whittaker’s, shared insights about the new product. She explained that the peanut-centric flavour was specifically developed to provide a balanced blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements.

    “We are eagerly anticipating the response from chocolate lovers. We believe this is something unique and we can’t wait to hear their feedback,” she stated.

    Availability

    The Peanut & Caramel Brittle is now available for purchase in Australia. You can find it at your local Coles and Woolworths stores, priced at $8 per block.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main flavour in Whittaker’s new chocolate block?
    The main flavour in Whittaker’s new chocolate block is Peanut & Caramel Brittle.

    Is the Peanut & Caramel Brittle chocolate block free from palm oil?
    Yes, the Peanut & Caramel Brittle chocolate block is completely free from palm oil.

    Where can the new Whittaker’s chocolate block be purchased in Australia?
    The new Whittaker’s chocolate block can be bought at Coles and Woolworths stores across Australia.

  • Cadbury launches smartphone-size milk block range

    Cadbury launches smartphone-size milk block range

    Cadbury, a renowned chocolate brand, has introduced its 100g Dairy Milk chocolate blocks to supermarkets all over the country, in a strategic move to capitalize on the changing consumer preferences.

    New Convenient Size for the Modern Consumer

    The latest product is roughly the same size as a smartphone, deliberately designed for ease and convenience. It primarily targets smaller households and individuals who are on the lookout for indulgent treats that are also portion-friendly. The 100g blocks come in four enticing flavours, among them Cadbury Dairy Milk, Fruit & Nut, Black Forest, and a new exclusive variant, Honeycomb & Peanut.

    Australia enjoys the honour of being the first market outside the UK to introduce this new block size, as confirmed by Ben Wicks, VP of Marketing at Mondelez International Australia and New Zealand. Wicks further added that the new product line is proudly produced using Australian milk, sourced from their factory located in Tasmania.

    Commenting on the product, Wicks said, “Whether it’s about portion size, value, or simply indulging in a moment of joy, we’re meeting consumers where they are – without compromising on the chocolate they love.”

    Australian Chocolate Consumption Habits

    The launch of the new size is backed by recent consumer research, which involved nearly 2000 Australians. The results underscored the entrenched position of chocolate in Australian culture, with 59% of respondents revealing that they consume chocolate at least once a week.

    Expressing pride in this new offering, Wicks added, “We’re proud to offer even more choice with our new 100g Cadbury block, designed for today’s shoppers who want a convenient, quality treat that fits their lifestyle.”

    In March, Cadbury Australia also released its Easter range, showcasing new flavours in addition to some returning classics.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new product that Cadbury has introduced?
    Cadbury has launched a new 100g Dairy Milk chocolate block that’s approximately the size of a smartphone.

    What are the available flavours of this new product?
    The new product is available in four flavours: Cadbury Dairy Milk, Fruit & Nut, Black Forest, and a new exclusive variant, Honeycomb & Peanut.

    Which country is the first to stock this new product outside the UK?
    Australia is the first country outside the UK to stock this new size of Cadbury chocolate blocks.

  • Marou Honored with Dual Awards in France for Outstanding Achievement

    Marou Honored with Dual Awards in France for Outstanding Achievement

    The Prix Épicures de l’Épicerie Fine, a prestigious annual event spotlighting artisanal food, took place on April 28 at Pavillon Gabriel in Paris, hosted by Le Monde de l’Épicerie Fine. The 2025 edition attracted a vibrant gathering of over 140 producers and more than 800 attendees, including industry professionals, journalists, and culinary aficionados from across Europe.

    Marou’s Ca Phe Sua Chocolate Bar clinched the title of “Best Chocolate in the World 2025” in the Food category (Trophées Alimentaires). This delightful creation blends the rich flavors of Vietnamese coffee and condensed milk, incorporating organic Robusta coffee, fresh milk, and dark chocolate crafted from local cacao. Not only does this accolade celebrate the bar’s exceptional taste, but it also acknowledges Marou’s commitment to showcasing local ingredients while adhering to international quality standards.

    This isn’t Marou’s first time basking in the limelight. The brand has previously garnered gold, silver, and bronze medals from the London Academy of Chocolate and the International Chocolate Awards, all celebrating its remarkable flavors and quality. In 2016, the brand was lauded by culinary luminaries like Michelin three-star chef Michel Roux and patissier Pierre Hermé.

    But the awards didn’t stop with the chocolate bar. Marou also earned the “Coups de cœur du jury” (Jury’s Favorite Packaging) for its 55% Dark Chocolate Bar with Roasted Buckwheat. Could it be that packaging has taken the spotlight?

    The judges evaluated the packaging based on creativity, brand consistency, material quality, environmental responsibility, and functionality. Marou distinguished itself by utilizing recycled cacao husks, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and creatively illustrating the cacao journey—from bean to bar.

    Moreover, Marou’s packaging underscores the origins of its ingredients, honoring Vietnamese agricultural traditions, cacao heritage, and the vital roles played by local farmers and fermentation artisans. The brand has previously snagged four international packaging design awards, including three from the Pentawards and another from The Dieline Awards, notable for its striking designs inspired by Dong Ho folk paintings.

    The dual accolades at the 2025 Prix Épicures de l’Épicerie Fine bolster Marou’s reputation in the premium chocolate arena. The brand credits its achievements to three principles: direct sourcing, artisan craftsmanship, and intentional design. Collaborating closely with local farmers and fermentation specialists, Marou ensures high-quality cacao while championing sustainable agriculture, treating each bean as a reflection of its unique origin.

    The emphasis on design transcends mere functionality; Marou’s packaging narrates the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture and cacao traditions through its visual identity and material choices.

    “These awards reflect our creativity, artistry, and dedication to Vietnamese culture in every product,” said a Marou representative. “With a sustainable vision and exceptional quality, we continue leading the way, sharing Vietnamese chocolate with the world and leaving a lasting imprint on the global stage.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of the Prix Épicures de l’Épicerie Fine?
    It’s a prestigious award recognizing the best in artisanal and premium food, bringing together producers, professionals, and culinary enthusiasts.

    What makes Marou’s Ca Phe Sua Chocolate Bar special?
    It combines the flavors of Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk, featuring organic ingredients and a commitment to local sourcing.

    How does Marou prioritize sustainability in its packaging?
    Marou uses recycled cacao husks for its packaging, promoting environmental responsibility while telling the story of cacao production and its local heritage.

    Lees ook:

  • KitKat launches its most decadent bar to date

    KitKat launches its most decadent bar to date

    KitKat has launched its KitKat Gooey Choc – a new wafer bar version enriched with chocolate sauce. 

    The new Gooey bars feature a combination of chocolate syrup wrapped in smooth milk chocolate, and layered with crisp wafers.

    Melanie Chen, Nestle’s head of marketing for confectionery, said that the most decadent block KitKat Gooey Choc is irresistible, offering next-level indulgence with a gooey, chocolatey sauce that will delight KitKat fans. 

    “Chocolate lovers already adore our filled KitKat blocks, and we can’t wait for Aussies to experience this new treat during their next break.” 

    KitKat Gooey Choc will be sold at an RRP of $7 through all major retailers across Australia starting this month.  

    Last week, the brand also partnered with Nescafe to launch a new ready-to-drink product, KitKat-inspired coffee mix.

  • Ferrero Rocher’s Easter chocolate collection returns

    Ferrero Rocher’s Easter chocolate collection returns

    Ferrero Rocher’s limited-edition Easter collection is making a comeback and is now on sale through major retailers.

    The collection includes Ferrero Collection Boxed Egg, Ferrero Collection Easter Eggs, Ferrero Rocher Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut Easter Squirrel, Grand Ferrero Rocher, Ferrero Rocher Easter Egg Gift Box, and Ferrero Rocher Milk Chocolate and Hazelnut Easter Egg.

    The chocolate brand has partnered again with interior designer and tastemaker Steve Cordony for styling the collection.

    “This year, my Easter theme features greenery, natural napery, and touches of gold with Ferrero Rocher to elevate a tablescape,” said Cordony.

    “We also crafted the cutest napkin Easter bunnies using a classic Ferrero Rocher. Something so
    simple and effective way to adorn your Easter table this year.”

    Earlier this year, Ferrero debuted its frozen bakery range, the Nutella Croissant and Nutella Muffin, which are now available to food service partners across Australia.

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

  • Ferrero launches Nutella bakery range in Australia

    Ferrero launches Nutella bakery range in Australia

    Ferrero has debuted its frozen bakery range, the Nutella Croissant and Nutella Muffin, which are now available to food service partners across Australia.

    The Nutella Croissant is a flaky, buttery pastry filled with Nutella chocolate hazelnut spread for breakfast or a sweet snack. The Nutella Muffin uses sourdough and yoghurt to create a soft texture and is filled with Nutella.

    The Nutella Bakery Range is frozen to maintain freshness, with the Nutella Muffin ready to consume after only two hours at room temperature and the Nutella croissant frozen right after rising and ready to bake straight from the freezer.

    “We are incredibly excited to introduce the Nutella Croissant and Nutella Muffin to the Australian market,” said Azzurra Puricelli, head of new business at Ferrero.

    “These products not only showcase the versatility of Nutella but also meet the growing demand for convenient, high-quality bakery items. We believe our new range will delight consumers and give our food service partners a delicious new way to serve Nutella.”

    The Nutella Croissant and Nutella Muffin are now available through Campbells Wholesale and PFD Foods.

    Ferrero Rocher launched two products for Christmas through retail chains with back limited-edition chocolates.

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

  • Nutella, Lavazza partner to launch biscuits and coffee ‘Perfect Match’

    Nutella, Lavazza partner to launch biscuits and coffee ‘Perfect Match’

    Nutella has partnered with Lavazza to launch Nutella & Lavazza’s biscuits and coffee ‘Perfect Match’.

    Lavazza brings the Espresso Barista coffee range, which uses beans from Central-South America, Africa and Asia with aromatic notes of flowers, cocoa, and wood.

    The Espresso Barista coffee complements Nutella’s golden baked crunchy biscuits filled with the brand’s signature creamy hazelnut spread.

    “Australians are snacking more often, with biscuits being consumed throughout the day,” said Azzurra Puricelli, head of marketing and new business at Nutella Australia.

    “We also know how much Aussies love coffee. With consumption going beyond the morning ritual, expanding into the afternoon coffee break and post-dinner treat, we wanted to give consumers that feeling of completeness with a perfect match.”

    As a promotion, shoppers who spend at least $15 on Nutella Biscuits and Lavazza Espresso Barista products at participating Woolworths stores between April 24 and May 14 will have a chance to win one of the 250 $100 Woolworths gift cards.

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

  • Louis Vuitton launches chocolate store in Singapore

    Louis Vuitton launches chocolate store in Singapore

    Luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton has launched its first chocolate store outside France, in Singapore.

    The chocolates, offered at Marina Bay Sands’ Louis Vuitton Island Maison boutique, are inspired by award-winning pastry chef Maxime Frédéric and prepared with ingredients including hazelnuts harvested on his farm in Normandy.

    The store’s design features yellow as the main colour tone. It also offers chocolate-based cakes and pastries with LV’s monogram logos.

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

  • Nestle begins work on ‘companion products’ for weight loss drugs

    Nestle begins work on ‘companion products’ for weight loss drugs

    Nestle on Thursday said it has started work on products to “companion” weight loss drugs like Novo Nordisk’s game-changing Wegovy, hoping to cash in on their growing popularity.

    The Swiss food giant’s CEO Mark Schneider said Nestle had not seen any impact from such drugs on sales so far, referring to the threat they pose to the packaged food industry that has spooked investors in recent weeks.

    Nestle shares fell this month after Walmart, the world’s biggest retailer, said it saw a slight pullback in food consumption with people taking appetite-suppressing drugs.

    “We’re working already on a wide range of products that could serve as companion products,” Schneider said during an earnings briefing, noting that some supplements can help with the “loss of lean muscle mass” and “rapid regain of weight”.

    “The largest parts of our portfolio will not be affected” by this new breed of weight loss drugs, he said.

    Globally, Nestle’s biggest businesses are coffee and pet care, while frozen food, confectionary and ice cream make up 15 per cent of sales.

    “We’re watching this carefully and will keep you updated,” Schneider said.

    Wegovy has been shown to help patients reduce body weight by around 15 per cent when used along with exercise and lifestyle changes. It is so far available in the United States, Norway, Denmark and, as of late July, Germany.

    Lees ook:

  • Ernest Hillier Chocolates enters administration

    Ernest Hillier Chocolates enters administration

    Australian confectioner Ernest Hillier Chocolates has appointed voluntary administrators to sell off its business and related entities.

    Established in 1914, the company is Australia’s oldest chocolate brand and operates a manufacturing facility in Coburg, Victoria. Its Ernest Hillier and Newman’s brands have been stocked across supermarkets for many years.

    Administrators Alan Walker and Glenn Livingstone from WLP Restructuring Partners are seeking urgent expressions of interest from interested parties who could recapitalise or acquire the business’ assets.

    Partner Alan Walker, said it is “unfortunate” that such a “storied” chocolate brand has encountered distress amid rising operating costs.

    “We are working closely with all affected parties as we move with urgency to understand the business’s affairs and find a suitable buyer or investor.

    “While this process is underway, we have had to make the unfortunate decision to cease manufacturing activity and stand down employees at this stage.”

    He added the brand’s existing relationships with large multi-national food and beverage providers alongside its supply agreements may “appeal to potential suitors”.

    The first statutory meeting of creditors will be held on June 30.

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

  • Maltesers unveils dessert-flavoured range into Woolworths

    Maltesers unveils dessert-flavoured range into Woolworths

    Confectionery brand Maltesers has launched a dessert range inspired by German and Italian treats.

    The range comes in two flavours: Dark Choc Black Forest Gateau which offers a crisp malt centre, dark chocolate with hints of cherry and sponge cake and Milk Choc Tiramisu which has coffee and whipped cream notes coated in rich milk chocolate.

    Mars Wrigley’s bitesize portfolio director, Drew Davis, said the new products “marked an exciting time” for the brand.

    “The new range delivers a top-notch, premium dessert experience in a simple bitesize format. It’s the first time we’ve created a product like this and we’re anticipating consumers to really enjoy what I believe feels like an indulgent experience.”

    The range is available in Woolworths stores nationwide and will be rolled out to other retailers in July.

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook:

  • Ferrero launches frozen dessert range

    Ferrero launches frozen dessert range

    Italian chocolate maker Ferrero will add two new frozen treats to Woolworth’s freezer aisles later this month.

    The range – which allows Aussies to enjoy Ferrero Rocher and Raffaello on a stick for the first time –  comes in two flavours: chocolate hazelnut and coconut.

    “Our experts have spent years crafting these recipes inspired by two of our much-loved brands – Ferrero Rocher and Raffaello,” said Azzurra Puricelli, marketing manager at Ferrero Australia.

    The Ferrero Rocher Classic frozen desserts combine the flavor of the famous chocolate with hazelnut and come with a crispy white coating comprising coconut shavings and almond pieces.

    Ferrero Rocher and Raffaello 4-stick multipacks will be available exclusively in Woolworths stores nationwide with an RRP of $12.

    Last month, Ferrero Rocher unveiled its Easter collection this year, which featured 11 limited-edition creations and new chocolates.

  • Kinder Bueno rolls out new chocolate eggs for Easter

    Kinder Bueno rolls out new chocolate eggs for Easter

    Confectionary giant Ferrero has rolled out a new Kinder Bueno chocolate range for Easter.

    The company described its new range as “addictive as they sound” and “filled with zero regrets”.

    “What’s more important than winning your family’s easter egg hunt?” said the chocolatier. “We make sure you arrive with the ultimate chocolate advantage to entice more action in the hunt”.

    The Easter chocolate range features:

    • Kinder Bueno Eggs: A milk hazelnut filling surrounded with crispy wafer and coated in chocolate.
    • Kinder Easter Hollow Figures 35g: Available in six spring figures.
    • Kinder Joy 20g.
    • Kinder Mini Eggs 100g.

    The new Kinder Bueno Easter Range is available at Coles, Metcash, and Target.

  • Consumer Reports urges dark chocolate makers to reduce lead, cadmium levels

    Consumer Reports urges dark chocolate makers to reduce lead, cadmium levels

    Last month, Consumer Reports said 23 of the 28 dark chocolate bars it tested included potentially harmful levels of lead, cadmium or both for people who eat more than one ounce of chocolate a day.

    Five had elevated levels of both metals: two from Theo, and one each from Hershey-owned Lily’s, Mondelez-owned Green & Black’s, and Trader Joe’s.

    Consumer Reports said many consumers eat dark chocolate for its potential health benefits and relatively low sugar levels, but “there’s nothing healthy about ingesting heavy metals.”

    The chocolate makers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

    The National Confectioners Association, a trade group, said the California health guidelines that Consumer Reports used and considered “the most protective available,” are “not food safety standards” and that chocolate remains safe to eat.

    Consumers have been sued at least nine times by Trader Joe’s over its dark chocolate since Consumer Reports released its study.

    Hershey’s and Mondelez have also been sued over the magazine’s findings, as have other chocolate makers, including Godiva and Lindt (LISN.S).

    Lees ook: