Love Cocoa confectionery appoints new non-executive chairman to drive business growth

UK-founded chocolate business Love Cocoa and its H!P brand have confirmed Giles Brook as non executive chairman of the business, writes Neill Barston.

The former Vita Coco CEO (pictured below) will drive the strategic development of both brands, helping build retail distribution, expand the team and lead the next external fundraise, currently planned for Q1 of 2022.

Love Cocoa and H!P, founded by James Cadbury, enjoy a combined retail value of £10million and are growing +200% YOY, experiencing a significant upturn since forming in 2016 with the UK’s first  letterbox-friendly chocolate service.

 

Since then, the brand has become known for its innovative take on British classics, with bestsellers including its Gin & Tonic, Maldon Sea Salt and Avocado Chocolate Bars. The brand is stocked in Liberty, Selfridges, Anthropologie and Harrods as well as in independent retailers nationwide.

Plant-powered H!P Oat Milk Chocolate launched earlier this year, immediately capturing the flexitarian zeitgeist and proving that British consumers are hungry for quality dairy-free chocolate alternatives. Over half a million bars have been sold to date, with the brand recently achieving listings in Ocado, Booth’s and on Getir. H!P is expected to turnover in excess of £1million in its first year of trading.

Both brands have established themselves in the eco sphere, championing sustainably-sourced, slave-free cocoa and plastic-free packaging alongside commitments to combating deforestation and climate change.

Cadbury (the great-great-great grandson of the original Mr Cadbury) says: “Giles’ experience in driving significant business growth alongside his vast knowledge of the FMCG landscape and expertise in building long-term retail partnerships is second-to-none. I’m excited to have him on board as we continue to strengthen and grow.”

Commenting on his appointment, Brook says: “Love Cocoa and H!P are at the forefront of sustainable chocolate innovation. I’m delighted to join their mission and propel the business to even greater growth.”

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