Entrepreneurs from 10 states gathered to participate in the second annual Chocolatier's Workshop, held at Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate's headquarters in Lititz, Pa., May 4-6. The three days encompassed classroom instruction and hands-on practice with confectionery creation.
“When we first designed the workshop, we thought we would focus on individuals who were planning to open a confectionery business and were looking for help to develop a solid business plan to ensure their success,” said Courtney LeDrew, marketing manager for Cargill. “What we have discovered is that people from all different chocolate-making and business development stages wanted to participate.”
Led by Cargill senior staff and other industry professionals, the seminar covered a range of topics including packaging, merchandising, legal and operational realities, choosing a product mix and purchasing equipment. Participants also related their own business experiences, brainstormed ideas and shared tips and techniques. The participants spent a day in the Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate lab, honing their chocolate-tempering and production skills.
Cargill is planning to offer the next Chocolatier's Workshop seminar Sept. 16-18. Cost for the three-day program is $800, and includes breakfasts, lunches and a celebratory dinner plus all of the course and lab materials. The company limits the number of participants to 10 individuals per workshop. Visit www.cargill.com for more details and additional upcoming dates.