Hames expands portfolio with giant chocolate buttons range
British confectionery firm Hames Chocolates has started Spring in dynamic fashion through notable extensions to its product ranges in the form of new Giant Buttons, writes Neill Barston.
The Lincolnshire business’s latest offering is being forged in Milk Chocolate and Milk Chocolate Caramel variants in 100g resealable stand-up pouches, being delivered through wholesale and convenience channels.
Notably, the latest line will also be available on Amazon, from this month, and is designed to deliver strong on-shelf standout and incremental sales.
As the company explained to Confectionery Production, the fresh series has been devised in response to growing demand for sensory-led indulgence and elevated everyday treats.
The ambitious confectionery firm’s generously sized new buttons series has been crafted to deliver enhanced melt and mouthfeel, while the Caramel Buttons introduce added texture contrast with a smooth milk chocolate shell and flowing caramel centre.
Bold colour blocking and clear flavour cues ensure strong impact in impulse fixtures and secondary sitings, while the resealable format supports sharing occasions and repeat purchase – all within a premium yet accessible price point.
Carol Oldbury, Director at Hames Chocolates, said: “As we look ahead to 2026, we’re seeing clear momentum behind nostalgic flavours such as milk chocolate and caramel, alongside growing demand for texture-led indulgence and premium formats that suit impulse and sharing occasions.
“As consumers increasingly seek high-quality but accessible treats, there is real opportunity within the sharing pouch segment. Our Giant Buttons range combines familiar, high-performing flavours with enhanced melt and texture contrast, strong shelf appeal and responsible sourcing credentials. It’s a format designed to work hard for retailers while offering shoppers a more considered everyday indulgence.”
Manufactured at Hames Chocolates’ Lincolnshire facility, the range also offers strong sustainability credentials, including Rainforest Alliance certified cocoa and 100% recyclable packaging – supporting retailers’ environmental commitments.
Fondant launch
In addition, the North-East England based chocolatier’s key offering comes hot on the heels of another line in the form of a new Dark Chocolate Fondant Cremes, expanding its offer for independent retail and the premium gifting market.
As the business noted, this series has been forged for farm shops, specialist retailers and the wider gifting space, designed to offer a premium yet accessible addition to its portfolio. It has been developed with 53% cocoa dark chocolate made with Rainforest Alliance certified cocoa, each fondant creme features a smooth dark chocolate shell with a soft fondant centre, and available in four fruit variants.
