Browne's Chocolate - An Okehampton success story...

An Okehampton chocolate firm that was rescued from administration earlier this year is now supplying Waitrose and Tesco – with plans to target contracts with airlines in 2012.

Browne's was bought out of administration in April by Joe Keohane and Nick Baker, who had previously grown Rock-based Sharp's Brewery from a £2.5 million to a £17.5 million business before selling it to Molson Coors in January.

They restarted production and rehired half of the firm's 20-strong workforce, who had been made redundant when the factory closed in March. Since then they have employed a further four employees and have restarted contracts, on a seasonal basis, with Waitrose and Tesco.

Mr Keohane, the firm's managing director, said talks were now on-going with the likes of Harrods – which Browne's has previously supplied – as well as Harvey Nichols. "It takes a while for businesses (like Harrods) to re-engage," he said. "We have shown some of our products to Harvey Nichols and they like our new range. We're hopeful for 2012."

The business is also actively targeting listings with airlines. "We are speaking to British Airways and Virgin. They are hard to get – but they give great visibility," Mr Keohane said.

The directors are particularly keen to drive up sales locally and have urged Westcountry consumers to extend to chocolates the "buy local" ethos they already apply to meat and vegetables.

"You can find good quality chocolates made in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset – we would like to see consumers try to support local businesses," Mr Keohane said.

Browne's is now trading online via the website www.brownes.co.uk, with sales expected to increase in the run-up to Christmas. It has also introduced new products including a truffle pop – a chocolate on a stick – and a hot drink made by blending three different types of chocolate, which the directors believe will help to extend its offering.

"I think the chocolate industry needs to be more innovative – it's not just about making the same products," Mr Keohane said.

Story from This is Devon