I sometimes describe books as ‘chocolate-box reads,’ meaning that they are perfect books for snuggling down in an armchair with an indulgent box of chocolates in one hand and my book in the other. Is there a more self-indulgent pleasure to be found than a couple of hours with a good paperback and some luxury delights? And if that book is about chocolaty confections, I might just be describing my perfect evening! Why not tempt your customers with some high-quality literature about your favourite topic whilst they are buying some tasty treats in your retail space?
Here are three fantastic reads that will persuade your customers to keep coming back for more!
The Nature Book: Allen M. Young’s The Chocolate Tree
Young’s The Chocolate Tree should be required reading for any seller or buyer of wholesale confectionery, as well as for any serious eater of chocolate! Young looks in detail at the natural and evolutionary history of Theobroma cacao alongside its cultural history. He follows the plant from rainforest to plantation, describing the ways in which European cultivation have caused environmental damage, before looking to the future of the cacao tree. Young hopes that current efforts to preserve and re-grow rainforests will help the cacao tree flourish in its natural environment.
An Introduction: Clay Gordon’s Discover Chocolate
This beautifully presented book is an ideal introduction to the world of a chocolatier, written by a self-taught expert. An ideal coffee table book, Discover Chocolate includes over one hundred gorgeous photographs, and carefully guides the novice through the various intricacies of buying and tasting fine confectionery. Gordon has a section on which wines to pair with which sweet treats, as well as following, the production of chocolate from bean to bar. Not only will your customers long to discuss this book with you, but they’ll also be keen to show off their newly acquired skills in buying high-quality products!
For the Health Conscious: Phillip Minton’s Healthfood of the Gods
We’ve all tried to convince ourselves that a few creamy squares of a bar are actually healthy, but Phillip Minton has proved it with science! Healthfood of the Gods is a fascinating book, which reveals the various health benefits of pure chocolate. Minton looks at the legends surrounding the product, providing some well-needed medical truths. Though it may sound too good to be true, Minton is a qualified physician, and backs up his claims with references to scientific research. With guilt-free indulging back on the menu, you’re sure to see a rise in your profits.
Stocking a quality selection of confectionery-related literature is a great way to encourage customers to step into your shop. All of the above would make brilliant presents, and inspire those with a sweet tooth to return again and again. Don’t forget to talk to our friendly sales team to sort out your wholesale confectionery needs before these books hit your shelves!
Angelina Moufftard works for hf Chocolates, established wholesale confectionery suppliers with decades of experience supplying sweets and high-end chocolates to retailers across the UK. Working with the most dedicated suppliers from France, Spain, Germany, Holland, Belgium, the USA and the UK, hf Chocolates' great tasting and beautifully packaged products add panache to any sweet display.
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