Hotel Chocolat posts 15% jump in revenue

In the 13 weeks to the end of December 2017, total group revenue rose 15% from the year before, with growth in the retail, digital and wholesale channels.

The company opened 10 new stores in the six months to the end of December, taking total UK stores to 100.

Hotel Chocolat, which is due to release its results for the six months to 31 December on 21 February, said trading since December remains in line with management's expectations.

Co-founder and chief executive Angus Thirlwell said: "We performed well, our new store openings contributed 6% of our growth in the period, with the balance of the growth coming from existing stores, digital and wholesale channels.

"Constant innovation saw our largest ever seasonal range in Christmas 2017 and we maintained strong availability of products to capitalize on the last minute rush, without any excess stock overhang.

"Highlights included a successful cocoa beauty launch, with a strong story behind it; rooted in our Caribbean eco-hotel and plantation. The launch of Supermilk Pure, our first-ever no-added-sugar milk chocolate, was also very successful and resonated strongly with customers seeking wellness and authenticity without compromise."

At 1020 GMT, the shares were down 5.5% to 326p.