Popular chocolatier to expand into Manchester
An award-winning West Didsbury chocolatier is expanding into city centre Manchester with the launch of Cocoa Cabana Chocolaterie and Cocktail Lounge in Ancoats – and is offering chocolate galore in return for pledges on Kickstarter.
Cocoa Cabana Chocolatiers was opened in West Didsbury by founder Sarah Gallacher in November 2012 and, since then, has gone from strength-to-strength, moving to bigger premises on Burton Road as its customer base grew and winning Great Taste and Academy of Chocolate Awards along the way.
“Opening my first shop in 2012 felt like a huge risk and there have been ups and downs, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the ride,” said Sarah.
“I’m really passionate about independent businesses thriving and it’s always been my plan to have more than one Cocoa Cabana.
“However, this one will be a little different as, besides our usual handcrafted bonbons, afternoon teas and chocolate making classes, we will also have space for parties, and will have great tunes and delicious cocktails such as Chocolate Martinis.
“Manchester Gin is curating our cocktail menu for us, so Mancunians can expect something special,” added Sarah, who won Entrepreneur of the Year at the Inspiring Women Awards 2014.
She said: “Ancoats is such an up-and-coming foodie destination and there are already some brilliant independents moved in, so it feels the perfect place for us to launch another shop.
“I’ve managed to raise most of the funds I need to make it happen, but have launched a Kickstarter campaign to help me reach my target and ensure there is enough money for all those special extras.
“It’s not easy for smaller businesses to raise finance through traditional methods – they don’t have the buying power of larger companies and it is more difficult to get loans.”
She implored: “I’ve already raised £50,000 and have another £15,000 to go, so please do pledge in exchange for some amazing chocolate-related rewards and experiences.”
For a £10 pledge donors can see their name up in lights at the new shop, while £2,000 enables you to take the entire venue for the night.
Cocoa Cabana Chocolaterie and Cocktail Lounge will be based at Saw Mill Court, Ancoats, with the 1,586 sq ft shop due to open next month.
