Chocolate shoes put start-up on path to success

A HIGH-quality chocolate shop has opened its second branch in York, bringing its range of locally-made products to one of the city’s most popular tourist haunts.

Giftag Chocolate Box was set up by former printer Graham Golisti and his wife Jane and opened in Thirsk last September.

Despite difficult economic conditions the business has proved successful with its ‘Killer Heel’ chocolate shoes proving a big hit with customers.

The York store is now opened at 37 Fossgate, one of the city’s picturesque central streets, which is popular with visitors. Further outlets are planned in the future.

Mr Golisti said: “Jane and I were more than happy to open another shop in these uncertain times and this is a direct result of the hard work and creativity of the team of Chocolatiers that design and create the Killer Heels and all the other fantastic chocolates including the wide range of individual handmade Easter eggs.

“Fossgate is getting an excellent reputation as being York’s premier street for unique shopping and dinning experiences due to the range of independent shops it has to offer.”

The couple received financial advice from Susan Sedgwick, a partner at Bradford-based accountant Watson Buckle.

Ms Sedgwick said: “Graham’s first store in Thirsk has proved extremely popular and I am sure that, given the quality of the products and the excellent location he has secured in York, his second outlet will be equally successful.

“A lot of retailers are having a tough time at present, but he has proved that, if you have the right idea, it is still possible to achieve success.”