One unwritten rule in the chocolate retail industry is: Never draw attention to prices unless they're remarkably low. Conventional wisdom suggests the less said about pricing, the better. However, at Hello Chocolate, we've decided to break this rule and explain why our curated selection of craft chocolates costs what it does.
When we started our journey as chocolate curators, we established three core principles:
- We would always source the finest craft chocolates from around the world.
- If costs increased, we wouldn't compromise on the quality of our selection to compensate.
- We would maintain or improve our curation standards, never reducing quality to cut costs.
These principles are intertwined and guide every decision we make. While many chocolate retailers claim to prioritize quality, they're often quicker to compromise on their selection or reduce variety to cut costs than to adjust prices. We've learned that superior craft chocolate usually comes at a higher cost. (However, the reverse isn't always true: pricier chocolate doesn't guarantee better taste.)
We've chosen to charge more rather than compromise the quality of our curated selection. Over the years, we've expanded our search for the finest craft chocolates:
We've focused on makers who use:
- Better cacao beans
- Superior milk (for milk chocolates)
- Higher-quality sugar
- Improved flavorings and inclusions
- Better... you get the idea
Premium ingredients truly result in superior chocolate, and we're committed to bringing you the best. We always remember that while raising prices is challenging, much of the industry operates under the assumption that "customers can't discern the difference." If chocolate prices surge, many would opt for cheaper brands — assuming no one will notice. We disagree. We believe our customers can and do appreciate the difference in quality craft chocolate.
When we price our curated chocolates, we use careful calculations, not arbitrary decisions. Our pricing reflects the cost of sourcing from artisanal producers, international shipping, proper storage, and the expertise required to curate an exceptional selection. These factors allow us to pay our suppliers fairly, cover our operational costs, compensate our staff, sustain our business, and continue bringing you the best possible craft chocolates from around the world.
It may surprise you, but the profit margins on Hello Chocolate's products are actually lower than industry standards for premium chocolate retailers. This fact often shocks people, but it's true. We invest significantly in sourcing, storing, and presenting the finest craft chocolates. How can others sell chocolate for less? The answer is simple: mass-produced chocolates, less rigorous sourcing standards, or a focus on quantity over quality.
At Hello Chocolate, we believe you really CAN taste the difference. Our commitment to curating the finest craft chocolates means higher prices, but it also means an unparalleled chocolate experience. We're transparent about our costs because we believe our customers deserve to know why they're paying more — and what they're getting in return: a carefully selected range of the world's best craft chocolates, brought to you by passionate experts dedicated to quality and flavor.
