Nicole Patel, Founder and Master Chocolatier at Delysia Chocolatier, shares the story of scaling a small business during the pandemic, hosting virtual chocolate tastings, and the challenges of rising costs. They also discuss the difficulties of developing flavors using only their sense of smell and the innovation of flat-topped chocolates.
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Quick takeaways
Efficient water management can lead to significant reductions in water consumption, energy use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Delicia Chocolatier's sustainable growth strategy includes owning facilities, adapting to consumer preferences, and introducing innovative products like cricket chocolate bars.
Deep dives
Optimizing Water Use Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions
According to environmental reporting non-profit CDP, global water use, storage, and distribution contribute 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. EcoLab helps companies optimize water use in over 170 countries worldwide, offering the potential to reduce water consumption in industrial facilities by up to 44%. This efficient water management could also lead to a 22% reduction in energy use and a 12% decrease in corporate greenhouse gas emissions.
The Success Story of Delicia Chocolatier
Delicia Chocolatier, founded by Nicole Patel in 2008, started as a simple idea for party and wedding favors. However, it quickly gained popularity and expanded, partnering with a top winery in Texas. Despite facing challenges in the early years, including difficulty in securing investors and bank loans, Patel and her husband invested in themselves and made the business profitable. With the impact of the pandemic, Delicia Chocolatier pivoted to virtual chocolate tastings, attracting big corporate clients and expanding its nationwide reach. Though faced with rising costs in ingredients and packaging, the small business remains profitable and has a balanced distribution of sales between online, corporate, and in-store purchases.
Delicia Chocolatier's Approach to Sustainable Growth
Delicia Chocolatier focuses on sustainable growth by owning their facilities and effectively managing infrastructure costs. Instead of renting, they purchased a facility in Austin, Texas, and even acquired the adjacent property to generate rental income. This strategy ensures stable expenses and prevents excessive increases in rents. Additionally, Delicia Chocolatier offers gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options, prioritizing inclusivity and adapting to evolving consumer preferences. Notably, they also introduced cricket chocolate bars, combining culinary innovation, high protein content, and a unique crunch factor.
Nicole Patel, Founder and Master Chocolatier at Delysia Chocolatier, discusses the chocolates and confections business and holiday gift giving ideas. Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.