British-founded chocolate drinks brand, Knoops, has entered into the spirit of the winter period with its latest seasonal series, writes Neill Barston.

The East Sussex forged firm is looking ahead to Christmas for its latest inspiration, creating a new series that it is anticipating will see it stand out from a notably crowded field.

As the business explained to Confectionery Production, it is hoping to capitalise on the traditional hot chocolate season with some indulgent options that will set the scene for the winter holidays.

The menu, which starts at £5, includes a brand new serve – the 65% Chocolat Chaud – plus a classic Festive Spice, The Winter Works and Jens’ Chocolate Orange.

As the firm added, recent data shows that only 40% of consumers make a splurge purchase over £50 once a month or more, while a vast majority turn to everyday or weekly sweet and savoury treats and 92% of people anticipate treating themselves, with nearly half stating small purchases are essential for improving mood and wellbeing.

With exploration and chocolate percentage at the heart of the Knoops experience, the festive menu ranges from smooth 34% milk chocolate to 54% dark chocolate with orange zest, with the deeply indulgent new 65% Chocolat Chaud stealing the show.

Jens Knoop, founder of Knoops, enthused: “The festive season is such an important time not only for hot drinks but for us as a chocolate drinks brand – chocolate is synonymous with Christmas and we all want to bring a bit of everyday indulgence into our lives, whether we’re out Christmas shopping, or just need a pick me up after a cold dark day.

“This year’s ‘Knoopsmas’ menu has been crafted to include some familiar tastes, such as festive spice and chocolate orange, but also some brand new show stoppers, like the indulgent Chocolat Chaud, all with discovery and personalisation in mind. We can’t wait to hear what customers think of the new Knoops menu.”