Peterbrooke Chocolatier looks to 2019 for strategic franchise partners after year of strong growth

Premiere Florida-based confectioner Peterbrooke Chocolatier announced strong business growth at the end of 2018, with plans for further expansion this year.

The company says it is now strategically positioned to achieve its development goals in 2019 after the opening of three new shops, the signing of multiple new franchise agreements and double digit sales increases across its more than 20-unit system. A company spokesperson said the momentum is indicative of the brand’s commitment to calculated development and its expansion into priority growth markets in Florida such as St. Augustine, Sarasota and Palm Beach.

“Peterbrooke has experienced strong growth in 2018 – from three new openings to multiple new franchise agreements and existing franchise operators expanding their business​,” said Jeff Smith, Peterbrooke Chocolatier’s chief operating officer.

“Our constant drive to improve operational efficiency has allowed us to accelerate development efforts across Florida and fill in available territories in expansion markets including Naples, Tampa, Orlando, Atlanta and Savannah. Furthermore, our concentrated focus on franchise operations has driven double digit increases in average comp sales while pushing our average ticket prices to nearly $30 per transaction​.”

Old world recipes

Since its inception more than 35 years ago, Peterbrooke’s goal has been to build a modern neighborhood chocolate shop based on old world recipes and confectionary traditions, ‘transforming the art of fine European chocolate making into a truly American experience’.

Most recently, the brand launched its 2.0 shop design that caters to evolving tastes, demographics and shopping habits. These store improvements include rotating gelato cases, chocolate tasting bars, state-of-the-art kitchens, build-your-own bark stations and interactive prep areas, which bring customers much closer to the chocolate making experience.

Peterbrooke was one of the earliest adopters of the UTZ certification in the United States and is a proud part of a sustainability program that involves all aspects of the chocolate supply chain.

Expansion

Franchising since 2006, Peterbrooke says it is currently seeking area developers and single and multi-unit operators to facilitate its expansion. Owners can expect their initial investment to range from approximately $222,750 to $343,500, including a $25,000 franchise fee. Peterbrooke candidates are required to have a minimum of $75,000 in liquid assets and a minimum net worth of $300,000. With minimal overhead, a marginal equipment investment and a customer base that is easily scalable, Peterbrooke franchisees are well positioned for success.

• For franchise development information, visit peterbrookefranchising.com​.