Gourmet Business October 2013

Holiday Musings ... and Chocolate

Ah, chocolat! I have chocolate on the brain – as well as foie gras, croissants and creme brulee – having just returned from a week in Paris. As my friends and I strolled through Montparnasse, we came upon a 1-square-mile area where seven of the most exotic, famous (and expensive) chocolate retail stores compete. What fun we had sampling the rich sweet treats with some costing as much as $5-$10 for just a small piece. While the world still debates from where the best chocolate hails, I am reminded when I sample fare from other countries that some of the artisanal products we make and sell right here in this country hold up to even the most exotic European offerings. Chocolate is no exception.

As the holidays approach, many in the gourmet retail industry are searching for the newest trends, elegant packaging and gift ideas. To explore all of this, on page 15, Joanne Fried- rick delves into all of the holiday chocolate trends beginning with Halloween and taking us through New Year’s. It’s that time of year when consumer indulgence is high and retailers must take advantage of their predisposition to buy. While having the right on-trend products is important, eye-catching merchandising is critical. And, sometimes, the obvious is most effective. “Just go with anything red,” said Kim Kristofer, senior category manager–confections at KeHE Distributors in Chicago.

Cutlery is another important holiday category as knives of all kinds and accompanying cutting boards, sharpeners and serving pieces take center stage in kitchens and on tables from large parties to intimate family gatherings. Jennifer White Karp’s feature on page 9, “East Meets West in the Knife Drawer,” explores the Asian influence and how the once very distinct characteristics of European and Asian knives are blurring, creating hybrid offerings.

So, enjoy perusing the pages of this important issue. It’s never too early to muse and plan for the holidays!

Maureen Azzato 

Managing Editor, Gourmet Business 

mazzato@gourmetbusiness.com