Knoops' new store in Knightsbridge, London | Photo credit: Knoops

Premium chocolate and coffee chain Knoops has announced significant plans for expansion that will see it open more than 120 UK stores over the next five years. 
 

Knoops, which currently operates 10 stores across the country, is seeking to reach 15 outlets nationwide by July 2023, including sites in Bath and Manchester. The café chain and retailer will also explore partnerships in high footfall, premium department stores such as Harrods and Selfridges. 

Speaking to The Caterer at the launch of its new Knightsbridge store in London, Executive Chairman William Gordon-Harris said Knoops will also consider international expansion next year, with North America, China, South Korea, Indonesia and Mexico slated as potential markets. 

Founded in East Sussex in 2013, Knoops offers a range of more than 20 more single origin chocolate-based drinks, alongside espresso-based beverages and tea for both in-store consumption and retail. 

Its expansion plans mean Knoops will face growing competition from fellow premium chocolate and coffee retailer Hotel Chocolat, which operates 125 boutiques in the UK, including many with a café element. 

Hotel Chocolat also operates five international stores and announced plans in January 2023 to launch 21 stores in Japan via Tokyo-based Eat Creator Corporation. 

In January 2023, Hertfordshire-based Hotel Chocolat posted strong full-year sales growth for the 52 weeks ended 27 June 2022 with sales increasing 37% to reach £226m ($271m).