The Braemar Chocolate Shop finds new life in an old bank building, thanks to local support.
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From Closure to Revival
Just a few months ago, the Braemar Chocolate Shop faced an uncertain future, teetering on the edge of closure. The beloved chocolatier, known for its exquisite handmade chocolates, had to vacate its original location in November, losing both its retail space and the kitchen essential for chocolate production.
Owners Dave Williams and Jo Sheridan were left in despair, unsure of what lay ahead. “We didn’t know what the future held,” Dave recalled. “At one point, we thought it was over.” The sudden loss of their production capabilities left them feeling vulnerable, especially with loyal customers depending on their products for holiday gifting.
A Community Comes Together
However, the village of Braemar quickly rallied to support the chocolatier. A neighboring sporran shop offered temporary retail space, while the Invercauld Estate provided a custom-built kitchen unit in a new industrial development, completed in just two weeks. This swift action demonstrated the community’s commitment to preserving a local treasure. The turning point came when the former Braemar bank, owned by Braemar Mountain Sports, was offered to them for lease. The building, complete with a walk-in vault, turned out to be an ideal environment for storing their delicate chocolates. “It’s a bit of a Willy Wonka story,” Dave remarked, excited about the possibilities. “We’ve got a vault full of chocolate now – and plans to fill it with little gold bars.”
Thriving Once Again
Since reopening, the Braemar Chocolate Shop has experienced a remarkable resurgence. They have secured a new supply deal with Balmoral Castle and are now providing chocolates to prestigious venues like The Fife Arms. The demand for their unique flavor combinations, which include Highland whisky, local honey, blue cheese, and sourdough, has grown significantly, leading to international shipping to countries like Belgium and Switzerland. “It’s a labor of love,” Dave said, noting that they produce thousands of handmade chocolates each week, including a range of bars and chocolate squirrel lollipops for children. Looking ahead, the couple is launching the Cairngorms Caramels Company, focusing on products with a longer shelf life for wider retail distribution. “We’re in the middle of the Cairngorms, so it’s part of our story,” Dave explained, reflecting on his journey from army chef to chocolatier.
Commitment to the Future
With a five-year lease signed for both their shop at the Auld Bank House and their new production kitchen at Lion’s Face Workshop, Dave and Jo are firmly committed to their future in Braemar. “We’re in it for the long term,” Jo stated, expressing their hope that the Cairngorms Caramel Company will thrive for years to come. The couple’s story is a testament to the power of community support and resilience in the face of adversity, proving that with determination and local backing, even the most challenging situations can lead to new beginnings.
