Press Kit last revision : June 2015
“zChocolat is committed to elevating the art of gift giving to a new level of personal expression – one of imagination, intelligence, and elegance – and one that assures the sender will make a grand and lasting impression.”
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INSIDE Z ...... 5
A BRIEF HISTORY ...... 5 OUR AWARDS ...... 6 OUR MISSION ...... 9 WHY Z ? ...... 9 OUR IDENTITY ...... 9 OUR LOGO ...... 9 OUR MATERIALS ...... 10 OUR COLORS ...... 11 WELCOME TO OUR UNIVERSE ...... 12 1. « CHIC », LUXURIOUS AND REFILLABLE GIFT BOXES ...... 12 2. A UNIQUE NUMBERED CHOCOLATE WITH 26 RECIPES ...... 15 3. A PRODUCT 100% MADE IN FRANCE ...... 16 4. CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE ...... 17 5. INTELLIGENT CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS ...... 18 6. WORLDWIDE EXPRESS DELIVERY ...... 23 OUR STRENGTHS ...... 24 14 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE ...... 24 A UNIQUE CHOCOLATE CONCEPT ...... 24 100% PROPRIETARY SOFTWARE ...... 24 INTEGRATED LOGISTICS ...... 24 INTERNATIONAL EXPRESS SHIPPING & TRACKING AT REASONABLE RATES ...... 24 PASSIONATE & EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE ...... 26 STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP ...... 27 TASTING EVENTS ...... 28 JANUARY 24TH 2013 - ZCHOCOLAT LIGHTS UP DUBAI ...... 28 FEBRUARY 9TH 2012 – ZCHOCOLAT IN LONDON ...... 28 NOVEMBER 15TH 2011 – ZCHOCOLAT IN NEW YORK ...... 28
THE CHOCOLATES...... 29
THE COUVERTURES (COATING) ...... 29 70% VENEZUELA DARK COUVERTURE ...... 29 THE NUMBERED CHOCOLATES ...... 31 OTHER CHOCOLATES ...... 41 OUR DELICACIES ...... 44 THE ASSORTMENTS ...... 45 THE INGREDIENTS ...... 59
THE PRODUCTS ...... 62
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THE ZBOX COLLECTION : “CHIC & MODERN” ...... 62 THE MAHOGANY COLLECTION: “ELEGANCE, INTELLIGENCE AND EXCELLENCE...... 63 THE BASSWOOD COLLECTION: “NATURALLY SUPERB” ...... 64 THE TRUFFLE COLLECTION: “WARNING: VERY ADDICTIVE” ...... 65 ASSORTMENT COLLECTION: “THE MARROW OF FRENCH KNOW-HOW” ...... 65 THE ROMANTIC COLLECTION: “A FRENCH CHOCOLATE KISS” ...... 66 THE BIRTHDAY COLLECTION: “A BIRTHDAY WISH COME TRUE” ...... 67 THE “WITH LOVE FROM PROVENCE” COLLECTION: “A TASTE OF SOUTHERN FRANCE” ...... 68 THE THANK YOU COLLECTION: “GRATIFYING GRATEFULNESS” ...... 69 THE GET WELL COLLECTION : « A DELICIOUS PICKER-UPPER” ...... 70 THE WEDDING COLLECTION: “AMOROUS DECADENCE” ...... 71 THE HOBBIES COLLECTION: “ACKNOWLEDGE AN AVOCATION” ...... 72 PARTY FAVORS: “MAKING MEMORIES” ...... 72 BUSINESS GIFT-GIVING ...... 73
CONTACT AND LINKS ...... 74
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INSIDE Z
A brief history
Watch the film: http://vimeo.com/couchmode/zchocolat/videos/sort:date/53627435
zChocolat was founded in November 1999 by Valérie & Jean-Philippe Khodara from their home in Aix-en-Provence (South of France). They realized that the Internet provided them the perfect venue to share their passion for supreme-quality chocolates with the rest of the world. They started by searching out a master, artisan chocolatier to create an exclusive line of gourmet chocolates and were thrilled to collaborate with Pascal Caffet, World Champion Chocolatier. But they realized making the finest French chocolates accessible worldwide was only the beginning; when it would be imperative to distinguish themselves from others with original packaging, inspired gift customization and unrivaled customer service. They adhere to the philosophy that the quality and responsiveness of customer service had to meet the same exacting standards of their products. It is for this reason that they don’t subcontract logistics or customer service - both executed by zChocolat employees in the South of France.
Today, logistics are entirely conducted in Forcalquier, one hour from zChocolat’s headquarters in downtown Aix-en-Provence. The company has reached over 2M€ of online sales to 150,000 members in 225 countries. zChocolat has established itself among a select group of ultra-luxury brands in hundreds of affluent communities in over two hundred countries.
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Our Awards
In 2000, just a few months after going online, zChocolat was awarded the prize for “Best Start-up” by the FEVAD1 and granted 20,000 FRF.
The same year, zChocolat was selected among the top 2 e-Businesses in the South of France by the French Ministry of Economy, Finance & Industry.
In June 23rd 2000, Le Figaro, IBM, Kelkoo and Ernst & Young joined together to organize the e-business Grand Trophy which selects the top 10 French web merchants of the year. zChocolat was selected among these chosen few. They stated…: “To offer the very best productions of the finest chocolate makers in France, to offer unique gifts combining sophistication and indulgence, and to guarantee customer satisfaction. This is the triple imperative of this website, entirely dedicated to the sweet pleasures of the palate. Superb boxes filled with sumptuous assortments. Express shipping, free of charge.”
From 2005 to 2011, when Forbes was running the “Best of the Web” contest for all business categories, zChocolat remained #1 the entire period! Forbes stated… :“When world champion chocolate-maker Pascal Caffet asks foodies to "prepare for a journey to an enchanted world," he isn't kidding. The hand-crafted confections, lovingly displayed here with enticing photos and descriptions, are all made by four award-winning French master chocolatiers, whose mouth-watering wares include praline truffles, cinnamon-apple caramels and lavender honey dark chocolates. Shop for one of the 57 assortments by price or by category. Under Easter, we found offerings ranging from a box of festive foil-wrapped hazelnut and almond praline eggs ($46.59) to a leather-strapped "book" filled with 400 seasonal delicacies ($287.59). For an extra $6.55, the site will even swath your goodies in handmade paper, clasped with a heart-shaped golden wax seal. White-glove service includes free e-mail delivery alerts within three hours of your chocolates' arrival and a concierge who announces deliveries to lucky gift recipients with warmth and courtesy.
o BEST: zChocolat wins style points for its refillable mahogany boxes that can be custom engraved with a diamond brass plate. o WORST: Only the ballotin assortments can be handpicked.”
1 The FEVAD is the Federation for Mail Order Businesses (mail order, web retail, etc.), a famous association in France. Press Kit Page 6
October 5th2013: zChocolat earned the Omyagué Award in Paris for the most innovative product. Learn more.
October 21st 2013: zChocolat rated "Best Chocolate Store" by Top Consumer Reviews.
October 24th 2013
November 11th, 2013: zChocolat has been awarded the "Customer Service Award 2013" from the Better Business Bureau which requires an A+ rating with a complaint free record, conformance with rigorous accreditation standards and impeccable business practices.
November 19th, 2013: Our Diamond gift box is one of the gifts inspired by the November cover of Vogue, starring the elegant and sophisticated Kate Winslet.
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November 30th, 2013
December 10th, 2013
January 16th 2014: "There's chocolate. Then there's chocolate". Read the article.
Access our online Press Book here.
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Our mission
“We are committed to elevating the art of gift giving to a new level of personal expression - one of Elegance, Intelligence, and Excellence - and one that assures the sender will make a grand and lasting impression - anywhere in the world.”
ELEGANCE Art of gift-giving: « Chic à la française »
INTELLIGENCE Personal touch with boundless customization options.
EXCELLENCE Quality & worldwide delivery.
Why Z ?
Z is the mathematical symbol for the infinite range of whole numbers. It is also the 26th letter of the alphabet representing the 26 recipes from our Numbered Collection: chocolates 0 to 24, plus our signature Z chocolate.
Our identity
Our logo The Z is prominently displayed in the center.
The @ symbol surrounding the Z points to our roots: born on the Internet (and its circular shape symbolizes perfection and universality).
The arabesque decorations emanating from the encircled Z signifies our handcrafted tradition and adds a touch of savoir faire.
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Our materials 1. Mahogany wood for our most luxurious gift boxes 2. Basswood for our eco-friendly gift boxes 3. Highest-quality cardboard for our alternative to ballotin boxes : the zBox 4. Sleek and modern slips for our Assortment collection
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Our colors
Black & white for its sobriety and timeless chic.
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Welcome to our universe
1. « Chic », luxurious and refillable gift boxes
We believe presentation must reflect the same degree of care and quality as our chocolates. All our gift boxes follow the French definition of luxury, "chic à la française” and are refillable.
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We have chosen wood (mahogany and basswood) as the primary vessels to house and present our chocolates. Wood is a precious material, very unstable – especially in humid environments – but it is so, so elegant. All our wooden boxes are hand crafted in the Jura region of France by a vanishing breed of fine woodworkers. Each wooden box is impeccably finished, singular and has a unique serial number carved into its base.
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All gift boxes are individually robed in a stylish drawstring cover pouch. It is perfectly fitted to protect the product while elegantly presenting personal greeting cards and chocolate booklet inside a front pocket.
Our little black assortment boxes are a cost-efficient, yet sophisticated way of sending additional chocolates to anyone who's received a zChocolat gift box. They fit snugly inside the original box to be regularly freshly stocked with an assortment of zChocolates. Best of all, they cost less than purchasing another gift box holding the same chocolates, so one need not send a new one. All assortments are customizable with different recipes.
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2. A unique numbered chocolate with 26 recipes
zChocolat has invented a unique gold bullion shaped chocolate with 26 different recipes numbered from 0 to 24 including the Z chocolate (above) - with high-grade single-origin couvertures from Venezuela, Ivory Coast and Bolivia. No alcohol, no preservatives, no coloring; high cocoa content, low sugar and 100% pure cocoa butter.
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3. A product 100% made in France
Our chocolates are handmade in the city of Troyes, France; our mahogany and basswood boxes are painstakingly constructed in the Jura region of France, all zBoxes in the Sarthe region in France – and our customer service, order fulfillment and operations are performed in the South of France. Each box of chocolates is proudly stamped with a 'Product of France' label –bestowing each gift with an aura of distinction.
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4. Customer service excellence
Our customer service is "passionate" and pro-active from the time the order is placed online until final delivery. We have been awarded the "Customer Service Award" from the Better Business Bureau which requires an A+ rating with a complaint free record, conformance with rigorous accreditation standards and impeccable business practices.
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5. Intelligent customization options
Extending a present is bestowing a portion of thyself. We allow customers to add a personal touch to all gifts with ease and distinction, transforming a simple act of giving into an unforgettable experience. No initial setup fees, no minimum volumes, no delays.
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Custom gift card
Each gift is accompanied by a natural-fiber greeting card, entirely customizable with a personal message, a personal photo, a company logo or any other JPEG format image uploaded on our website.
Custom chocolate assortment
Customers can create their own assortment by individually picking their favorite chocolates. When ordering for themselves, they select the recipes they like best; when ordering a gift,
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they can also take advantage of our numbered chocolates by "writing-out" a year, a birthdate, a phone number or even a cryptic, numeric code.
Custom boxes
All our gift boxes are customizable with a personal picture or corporate logo.
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Alphanumerical engraving
All our gift boxes can be engraved with a personal alpha-numerical engraving such as a name, special date or any other 25-character engraving.
High-end wrapping
Our high-quality wrapping paper is entirely handmade and carefully selected for its matte background and high-glossy, mosaic surface. The wrapped gift is elegantly finished with a white satin ribbon and a sophisticated handmade black wax seal.
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Custom wax seal
Engender a sense of pride and personality to your gift by adding your recipient's initials or age (for a birthday) in white to the black wax seal clasping your gift. Laser-cut with precision, the initials are directly fused into the seal as the hot wax is poured. The resulting crisp-dry seal is solidly stunning.
« Unlock my heart »
Customers can seal their present with a touch of romantic genius by adding this heart- shaped padlock with their personalized combination. The gold-colored handle of this elegant lock secures the top of the drawstring pouch enclosing the box of chocolates. The gift recipient must crack the four-number combination to access the luscious confections protected by the pouch. Combinations can include an anniversary year or other special date MMDD.
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6. Worldwide express delivery
From the very outset, a prime goal of ours was to make our products and services available to the entire world. We deliver year-round no matter the climate; and the number of destinations has now grown to 244 countries. Delivery is fast and chocolates are delivered fresh from France. To help assure our international proficiency, we maintain administrative offices in Ojai, California.
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Our strengths
14 years of experience zChocolat was born in November 1999. We’ve utilized the past 14 years to optimize our products and services, learn from our mistakes, understand our market, build and maintain an extraordinarily valuable database of statistics. Better yet, we survived the 2007-2010 crisis and emerged stronger. “What does not kill you makes you stronger” (Friedrich Nietzsche).
A unique chocolate concept zChocolat has created a unique chocolate concept with numbered chocolates within an @ symbol in a half gold bullion shape protected under INPI patent 2011 0766 issued on 8/5/2011 under publication number 890242, 890243 and 890244.
100% proprietary software zChocolat has created easy to use and convenient software for online ordering including our cutting edge website, an iPad web-application and an iPhone web-application. We also developed, own and maintain a state of the art, proprietary CRM system and an order fulfillment system.
Integrated logistics zChocolat now operates its own 15,000 square-feet logistics center in Forcalquier, France for storage and daily order fulfillment. It is conveniently located 45’ north of its headquarters in Aix-en-Provence. It is equipped with state-of-the-art industrial laser & printing technology, allowing zChocolat to perform on-demand customization while usually still shipping the same-day.
International express shipping & tracking at reasonable rates Our luxurious French chocolate, in large measure owing to our strict refrainment of preservatives, is highly perishable, with a short shelf life which is very sensitive to temperature variations (it starts melting at 20° Celsius/67° Fahrenheit). We have perfected expeditious, worldwide delivery solutions throughout the year; all at ultra-competitive shipping fees. We are not aware of any other chocolate company providing comparable services and costs.
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1. Shipping cost: is usually prohibitive the moment you ship abroad. Yet, as a general rule, it must remain below 25-30% of the total purchase price. Thanks to the collective volume of international business we generate for DHL, we have negotiated highly favorable shipping rates, which we in turn pass along to our customers. To put our DHL rates in perspective, we charge customers less to ship from France to the United States (via 2nd-day air) than Godiva charges from within the U.S. Why?
a. We do not mark up our cost for shipping; we pass along 100% of the savings to our customers. b. We have been working with DHL since the very beginning and have negotiated the best rates in the industry. We maintain a friendly relationship with Florence Noblot, former CEO of DHL France. During her last television interview, the only company she mentioned was zChocolat (at 6’20” in the interview).
2. We minimize the customs quagmire: except for deliveries to EU member countries, all other countries involve local customs which can trigger delays, duties and requests for special sanitary certificates and permits. How do we assess the correct amount of taxes? How do we prevent the local gift recipient from being billed for such duties/taxes? How to prevent the chocolates from melting while they are held up in Customs? How do we get the certificates, permits and other licenses necessary to export to certain countries? This is only a short list of issues related to international shipping. We have found specific solutions to all of these questions. We have 14 years of priceless delivery statistics comprised of 190,000 shipment to 179 countries including the ability to compute with precision the percent of shipments that have be held up in customs, the average duty charge by country, and a constantly updated, comprehensive listing of required documents, etc.
3. Summer packaging: we developed proprietary summer packaging which helps assure our chocolates arrive in impeccable condition anywhere in the world. Our packaging uses insulated containers and refrigerant packs to maintain an interior temperature between 15°C and 20°C (59°F and 67°F) until delivery, regardless of the outside temperature. We offer it free - and automatically use it whenever conditions appear to warrant it.
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4. Pro-active tracking: zChocolat has developed, in conjunction with DHL, proprietary software allowing zChocolat to email customers in real time each time a package goes through a check point; from the time the package ships from our logistics center in France to final delivery destination. Checkpoints include shipment, arrival at customs, custom clearance, arrival at the local DHL office, inside the DHL truck and final delivery – including local time and signature. Real-time email notices also include possible incidents such as a bad delivery address, customs clearance delays or the recipient not answering the door. We receive high praise for this seamless, fully automated service from our customers; and it is our understanding that it remains unprecedented in e- commerce.
Passionate & exceptional customer service « We are passionate about customer service ». Our customer service personnel are trilingual (French, English and Spanish), highly knowledgeable, warm, gracious and eager to help.
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Strategic partnership
zChocolat has formed a strategic and exclusive partnership with Pascal Caffet, World Champion Chocolatier & Pastry Chef. All chocolates are handmade with zealous adherence to French tradition: no alcohol, no preservatives, no coloring, high cocoa content, low sugar and 100% pure cocoa butter. All signature dark, milk and white chocolates include rich ganaches prepared with the highest quality French butter and cream from Normandy; and finely textured pralinés honed from a perfected mixture of Valencia almonds from Spain and Piedmont hazelnuts from Italy. Our collection of chocolates is the organic outcome of combining Pascal Caffet's renowned expertise with years of meticulous chocolate tasting and feedback from thousands of our customers. Of course, taste is subjective, we each have different pallets. However, feedback from our customers has been unanimous; these are the best chocolates they have ever tasted. This is not a coincidence… while the majority of chocolatiers buy their chocolate couverture from large chocolate importers; we have chosen to work with a smaller French cocoa hunter, Olivier de Loisy, who still travels the world to find the finest cocoas. He is personally responsible for discovering the Bolivian couverture for our large Z chocolate – for which we have only a limited stock.
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Tasting events zChocolat invites its local customers to private tastings in some of the most magnificent places worldwide:
January 24th 2013 - zChocolat lights up Dubai
zChocolat celebrated the launch of its new luscious ginger chocolate heart in the Royal Ballroom of the One&Only Royal Mirage hotel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Over 1,000 customers & guests attended the tasting event from the seven emirates as well as customers from all GCC countries: Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait.
Watch the film: http://vimeo.com/58895044
February 9th 2012 – zChocolat in London
Just before Valentine's Day, we celebrated the launch of our giant chocolate heart, “Mon Coeur” in the Palm Court ballroom of the Waldorf Hilton hotel, London. Over 700 customers tasted delicate samples of Mon Coeur, meticulously prepared in person by Pascal Caffet. The verdict was unanimous: “A most romantic gift and the best praline ever!"
Watch the film: http://vimeo.com/38500209
November 15th 2011 – zChocolat in New York
Held at the Loews Regency Hotel on Park Avenue, this private tasting event was a decidedly delicious success. Feedback regarding the newest additions to our collection of numbered chocolates was overwhelmingly favorable.
Watch the film: http://vimeo.com/38791646
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THE CHOCOLATES
The couvertures (coating)
When it comes to chocolate, we never compromise. We exclusively use pure, single-origin cocoa in our couvertures; never blended cocoa couvertures, which result in average, everyday flavors. The use of high grade, single-origin cocoa beans produces a more distinctive and longer finish on the palate than blended beans. Beware of chocolate that reveals its aromas too fast: the longer the finish - the greater the couverture. We have created three single-origin chocolate couvertures made from 100% pur cocoa butter; as each couverture is made from a unique cocoa bean with a guaranteed identifiable "vintage":
70% Venezuela dark couverture
Since the 15th century, Venezuela has been consistently producing some of the highest quality cocoa beans in the world. From East to West along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, one finds renowned fields of cocoa trees. We have selected the "Carenero superior" grade bean (Criollo type) from the Carupano region, from which the aromas are bright, spicy and flowery with an outstanding length that ends on a slightly bitter yet pleasant note.
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40% Ivory Coast milk couverture
The Ivory Coast's reputation as a cocoa grower is largely founded on the sheer quantity of production rather than quality. The cocoa beans it produces are quite bitter - however, when used to make milk chocolate, the bitterness becomes an asset; it gives a perfect balance to the milk and sugar. We have selected a fermented Forastero variety with an "Ivory Coast Good Fermented" grade. Not too sweet, this cocoa produces a delightful, lingering aftertaste, reminiscent of Viennese pastries.
73% Bolivia dark couverture
Deep in the basin of the Amazon, thousands of dedicated independent cocoa farmers work their land to produce the finest cocoa beans in Bolivia. Being of a smaller size then most beans, the process of harvesting is much more challenging, but results in one of the top chocolates in the world. We use this scarce (2008 vintage) couverture of intense 73% dark chocolate to create our Large Z chocolate. These rare, Bolivian Trinitario cocoa beans impart wonderful hints of licorice and dried fruits to our largest chocolates.
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The numbered chocolates
The Z Chocolate : our flagship chocolate
Our most popular chocolate; intense 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture encasing a duo of a lush caramel and crunchy praliné: the caramel is sweet and salty with Bourbon-Vanilla from Madagascar, the praliné is composed from slow-roasted Piedmont hazelnuts.
The White Z Chocolate
Velvety white chocolate couverture encasing a duo of a lush caramel and crunchy praliné: the caramel is sweet and salty with Bourbon- Vanilla from Madagascar, the praliné is composed from slow-roasted Piedmont hazelnuts.
The Milk Z Chocolate
Intense, 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture encasing a duo of a lush caramel and crunchy praliné: the caramel is sweet and salty with Bourbon-Vanilla from Madagascar, the praliné is composed from slow-roasted Piedmont hazelnuts.
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Chocolate n°0
Made from slow-roasted Piedmont hazelnuts, this sumptuous praliné is surrounded by a 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture peppered crunchy visible bits of California almonds.
Chocolate n°1
A velvety Madagascar Bourbon-Vanilla ganache, infused with a hint of Provençale lavender, enveloped in 62% Venezuelan dark chocolate with an additional 70% cover Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°2
An unforgettable Italian Gianduja praliné; handmade with Piedmont hazelnuts and 70% intense Venezuelan dark chocolate - surounded by rich 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate.
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Chocolate n°3
Rich, smooth caramel intermingled with tangy passion fruit, coconut and unctuous mango puree - covered in 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate.
Chocolate n°4
A couverture of rich 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate surrounding a handmade praliné of tasty Spanish, Valencia almonds and crunchy peanuts from China.
Chocolate n°5
A rich, deeply flavored, 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture made from the Carenero Superior bean from Caracas with a 62% dark Venezuelan ganache filling.
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Chocolate n°6
A balanced praliné made from slow-roasted Valencia almonds from Spain, rich 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, all covered with intense 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate studded with minced California almonds.
Chocolate n°7
Coarsely minced sweet and salty pistachios blended with a creamy pistachio-almond paste, encircled by a couverture of 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate.
Chocolate n°8
An inspired combination of finely ground caramelized hazelnuts from the Piedmont region of Italy, phyllo dough, an unctuous coffee ganache fashioned from Kenyan coffee and Maragogype coffee beans from Nicaragua (covered in a 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate).
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Chocolate n°9
A praliné crafted from slow- roasted caramelized Valencia almonds from Spain ground into a fine powder, mixed with milk chocolate and pure cocoa butter. All drenched in a 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°10
A dense, solid and intense 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate, generously studded with minced, crunchy Valencia almond bits. Pairs great with robust red wines.
Chocolate n°11
A bite-sized dessert unto itself: fresh, seedless raspberry purée whisked with robust 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate and cocoa butter into a lavish ganache; coated with a 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture.
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Chocolate n°12
A surprising and enticing blend of toasted Dutch sesame seeds in a Valencia almond praliné made of finely ground caramelized almonds, encased in a 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°13
A rich, smooth raspberry ganache, comprised of 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, 62% Venezuelan dark chocolate, enhanced with a hint of French violet; drenched in a robust 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°14
Finely ground caramelized pistachios blended with Piedmont hazelnuts, milk chocolate and pure cocoa butter - covered in an enriching 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture.
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Chocolate n°15
A refreshing and acidulous lemon-almond paste surrounded by a rich 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°16
A delicious, solid 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, liberally riddled with minced, crunchy bits of Valencia almonds from Spain.
Chocolate n°17
A sumptuous praliné made from Piedmont hazelnuts and a refined 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, accented by the enticing flavor of finely grated Sri Lankan coconut - all drenched in an intense 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
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Chocolate n°18
Premium, savory Maragogype coffee from Nicaragua married with pungent Kenyan coffee, 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate, 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, cream and cocoa butter all combine to create this sublime ganache; enveloped in a rich, silken 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°19
This imaginative recipe merges French walnut praliné, phyllo dough and Valencia almonds into a refined 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, imparting a crunchy texture common to Middle Eastern pastries such as baklava (70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture).
Chocolate n°20
The perfect splash of zesty orange brightens this creamy ganache covered in a smooth, rich 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture.
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Chocolate n°21
A tender almond paste perfumed with a delicate floral hint of rose cloaked in a 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°22
A surprising blend of freshly milled coriander seeds from Ukraine with a subtle touch of citrus and hazelnut praliné from Piedmont, all coated in 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couverture.
Chocolate n°23
A silky ganache composed of 62% dark Venezuelan chocolate, brightened with the floral essence of violet and covered by a robust 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
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Chocolate n°24
Evoking the flavors of pastries and honey, this 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate ganache highlights the delicious personality of the Ivory Coast bean all the way to its couverture.
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Other chocolates
Chocamandine Our master chocolatier gently roasts Valencia almonds until their full, robust, nutty flavor is released. Each almond is then drowned in 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate and rolled in a 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate coating and cocoa powder.
Orangette An exquisite, tangy strip of candied Corsican orange peel surrounded by a tantalizing layer of intense 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate.
Truffle A blissful 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture covered in bittersweet cocoa powder surrounds a creamy Italian hazelnut paste and a velvety cocoa paste from Madagascar.
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Mystique This Bourbon Vanilla caramel from Madagascar with a 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate cover is dressed to impress in an irresistible dark chocolate robe of 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate.
Suprême Walls of a smooth 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate embrace a melt-in-your- mouth Piedmont hazelnut praliné studded with bits of phyllo dough.
Amore A divine heart of 62% and 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate covers a delicate ganache infused with bergamot tea, enclosed in a velvety white chocolate couverture, dressed in red.
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Toquade A magnificent contrast of flavors and colors meet in this 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate ganache cloaked in a delicious French white chocolate couverture (may occasionally be replaced with a white chocolate ganache infused with Bourbon Vanilla).
Mon Coeur A lovingly handmade 4-inch wide, half-pound chocolate heart. Its smooth, sensual exterior is comprised of unctuous, aromatic 40% Ivory Coast milk. Within, resides a supreme praliné, studded with slow-roasted, caramelized Piedmont hazelnuts - saturated in resonant 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate couverture.
Large Z A 3.4-inch tall, three-quarter of a pound edible work of art. Framed with a scarce (2008 vintage) 73% intensely dark couverture from Bolivia with hints of licorice and dried fruit, it reveals a whole slow-roasted caramelized Piedmont hazelnut center with a foundation of finely textured French praliné and a 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate cover.
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Our delicacies
Fruit Jellies 100% natural fruit jellies with invigorating flavors of cherry, orange, green apple, raspberry, strawberry, lemon and apricot, made with fruits picked at their ripest in Provence.
Nougat Exquisite nougat prepared with whole Provence almonds, cooked using ancestral traditions in local lavender honey.
Calisson d’Aix An Aix-en-Provence specialty, the Calisson is a delicious blend of almond paste, orange zest and candied cantaloupe covered in a delicate layer of icing.
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The assortments
Each zBox, Mahogany box or Basswood box is laden with one or several assortments according to its size. These default assortments have been composed to propose a wide array of savors catering to anyone's taste.
The 4-piece assortment
This selection combines 4 chocolates from number 0 to number 2 including our most popular chocolate, the Z: a combination of a crunchy praliné with sweet and salty caramel; chocolate number 0: a slow-roasted hazelnut almond praliné; chocolate number 1: a vanilla ganache infused with lavender; and chocolate number 2: a delightful Italian gianduja praliné. This basic selection offers a sampling of our 3 delectable couvertures: white chocolate, 40% milk chocolate from Ivory Coast and 70% dark chocolate from Venezuela. You may customize this assortment by handpicking different chocolates from our numbered collection.
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Traditional assortment
This selection features our 15 most traditional chocolates numbered from 0 to 11 including 3 of our ever-famous Z pieces: a combination of a crunchy praliné with sweet and salty caramel. Discover our other popular savors such as a Venezuelan dark chocolate ganache, a gianduja and hazelnut praliné or a rich raspberry ganache covered in premium dark chocolate. It also includes several more enticing pieces such as a passion fruit caramel covered in a blanket of smooth milk chocolate or a vanilla ganache infused with lavender. The assortment holds 8 dark 70% Venezuelan pieces, 6 milk 40% Ivory Coast numbers and 1 white chocolate.
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Exotic assortment
This unique, gourmet selection of chocolates numbered 12 through 24, represents an assembly of popular tastes along with additional exotic savors. The more familiar flavors include milk chocolate with orange, a milk chocolate ganache, and a coffee ganache. The more exotic numbers are comprised of several rousing flavors and ingredients: Sri Lankan coconut, Sichuan pepper, cinnamon, Chinese ginger, coriander, Iranian pistachio and violet. This assortment holds seven 70% Venezuelan dark chocolates, six 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolates and two white Z chocolates.
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Assortment of hearts
Our 12 heart-shaped chocolate assortment transpires passion and fantasy as it reveals 4 different recipes with various covers: a delicious dark ganache cloaked in a white exterior, a creamy milk hazelnut praliné coated with 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate, a Vanilla Bourbon caramel dressed in a dark 70% Venezuelan couverture and a divine ganache-infused bergamot hidden under a daring red robe - an exquisite assortment that will melt their heart upon the first bite.
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All dark chocolate assortment
Premium dark chocolate is not only healthier but also a luxurious treat for all your senses. Pascal Caffet, our master chocolatier, uses only the finest cocoa beans from Venezuela to create this 70% dark chocolate couverture. Treat someone special to 15 divine dark chocolates: this assortment includes one each of our unique, dark chocolate recipes: a vanilla ganache infused with a lavender essence; a smooth caramel mixed with a tangy passion fruit; a deep Caranero Superior bean ganache; a milk chocolate praliné mixed with Valencia almonds from Spain; a solid dark chocolate with Valencia almonds; a smooth raspberry ganache with a hint of violet; a milk chocolate ganache infused with fruity Sichuan pepper; a milk chocolate praliné with grated coconut from Sri Lanka; a silky ganache blended with coffee from Kenya and Mexico; a crunchy walnut praliné with phyllo dough; a ganache spiced with essence of gingerbread (cinnamon, licorice and star anise); a silky ganache with the subtle floral essence of violet as well as a dark Z Chocolate: a combination of a crunchy praliné with sweet and salty caramel.
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All milk chocolate assortment
Our premium milk chocolates contain 100% pure cocoa butter pressed from the finest cocoa beans of the Ivory Coast. The chocolate produced from this variety of beans is characterized by notes of sweet pastries and honey. Treat yourself or someone special to 15 creamy ganaches & crunchy pralinés enrobed in an uplifting 40% milk chocolate couverture. This assortment contains one of each of our milk chocolate recipes: an Italian Gianduja and Piedmont hazelnut praliné; a praliné with Valencia almonds from Spain and peanuts; a praliné with milk chocolate, pure cocoa-butter and slow-roasted caramelized Valencia almonds from Spain; a creamy pistachio almond-paste blended with minced sweet and salty pistachios; a creamy ganache of raspberry purée, dark chocolate and cocoa butter; a Valencia almond praliné blended with toasted sesame seeds, caramelized almonds and milk chocolate; caramelized pistachios with milk chocolate and pure cocoa butter; a solid milk chocolate with minced pieces of Valencia almonds; a creamy orange ganache; a hazelnut praliné blended with coriander seeds with citrus overtones; an uplifting milk chocolate ganache as well as 2 Z Chocolate: a combination of a crunchy praliné with sweet and salty caramel drenched in a milk chocolate couverture.
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All white chocolate assortment
Perfect for white chocolate fans, this assortment contains 15 white Z chocolates: a velvety white chocolate couverture encasing a duo of a lush caramel and crunchy praliné: the caramel is sweet and salty with Bourbon-Vanilla from Madagascar, the praliné is composed from slow-roasted Piedmont hazelnuts.
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Praliné assortment
Born from the talented mind of a 17th century French Chef at the Chateau de Vaux-le Vicomte, pralinés, which are whole nuts covered in caramelized sugar, have become a sought-after treat worldwide. We have mastered the art of creating these confections by carefully grinding and blending them with just the right amount of premium cocoa. The resulting grainy texture and nutty flavor, infused with a strong chocolate aroma is simply heavenly. Discover hazelnut, sesame seed, almond, pistachio, coriander and walnut pralinés drenched in 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate or 40% Ivory Coast milk chocolate couvertures. This assortment holds five dark, nine milk, and one white Z Chocolate.
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Z chocolate assortment
Amuse your senses with zChocolat's #1 favorite. Pascal Caffet masterfully combined two of his most popular recipes to create this to-die-for chocolate confection. When you first bite into the Z, a soft, sweet and salty caramel greets your palate followed by a Piedmont hazelnut praliné that perfectly complements the caramel flavor lingering in your mouth. Declined in a 70% dark Venezuelan coating, 40% Ivory Coast milk couverture and a white chocolate cover, our panel of taste-testers unanimously appointed this chocolate to be the sole carrier of our name.
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Chocamandines assortment
Extremely addictive, the chocamandine is best served in abundance to satisfy all chocolaty cravings. Our master chocolatier gently roasts Valencia almonds from Spain until their full robust nutty flavor peaks. Then, each almond is drenched in an intense 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate and cloaked in Criollo: the most opulent cocoa powder from the Chuao plantation in Venezuela.
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Orangettes assortment
Nothing compares to biting into a crisp outer layer of 70% Venezuelan dark chocolate surrounding a sumptuously tangy strip of fresh candied orange peel. Derived from ripened, Corsican oranges peels are gently simmered in sugar water, then cooled and submerged in melted, premium 70% dark chocolate. The result; an agreeable tartness followed by a sweet rounded finish.
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Fruit Jellies assortment
Share the essence of fruit, picked at its ripest in Provence and revisited by zChocolat with this 15-piece fruit jellies assortment composed of invigorating flavors such as cherry, lemon, apple and more.
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Nougat assortment
Treat someone to a deliciously tender 15-piece Nougat assortment all prepared with whole crisp Provence almonds - cooked using ancestral traditions in local lavender honey.
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Calisson d’Aix assortment
Treat someone to an Aix-en-Provence specialty with this Calisson assortment: a delicious blend of almond paste, orange zest and candied cantaloupe top-coated with a delicate layer of white sugar icing.
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The ingredients
Chocolate cover: - 70% Dark chocolate cover (cocoa paste, sugar, cocoa butter, emulsifier: soya lecithin (E322)) - 40% Ivory Coast Milk chocolate cover (Sugar, cocoa butter, whole milk powder, cocoa paste, skimmed milk powder, emulsifier : soya lecithin (E322), flavoring natural vanilla)- dark chocolate cover 66% (cocoa paste, sugar, cocoa butter, emulsifier: soya lecithin (E322)) - 62% Dark chocolate cover (cocoa paste, sugar, emulsifier: soya lecithin (E322)) - White chocolate cover (sugar, cocoa butter, skimmed milk powder, concentrated butter, emulsifier: soya lecithin (E322), vanilla, flavorings)
Dried fruit and by-products: - Hazelnut - Almond - Minced almond - Pistachio - Peanut - Nut - Grated coconut - Sesame - Hazelnut paste (100% hazelnut) - Marzipan (almond 65%, sugar, water, inverted sugar, ethanol) - Pistachio paste (almond, pistachio, sugar, hazelnut oil, coloring E140, flavoring natural, emulsifier : soya lecithin (E322))
Fat and by-products: - Cocoa butter - Cream UHT - Unsweetened semi-skimmed milk - Butter
Fruits and by-products: - Passion fruit purée (passion fruit 90%, sugar 10%) - Mango purée (mango 90%, sugar 10%) - Coconut purée (coconut 90%, sugar 10%) - Raspberry purée (raspberry 90%, sugar 10%) - Orange juice - Orange zest
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-Orange pulp -Yellow lemon juice -Yellow lemon zest -Candied cantaloupe -Apricot pulp -Pear William pulp -Lemon essential oil -Strawberry pulp -Raspberry pulp -Cherry pulp -Orange essential oil -Green apple pulp
Sugar and by-products: - Sugar - Powdered sugar - Glucose syrup - Wheat glucose syrup - Invert sugar - Dextrose - Lavender honey
Flavoring s and spices: - Bourbon vanilla bean - Violet flavoring - Natural flavoring of lavender - Coriander - Sichuan pepper - Gingerbread spices - Star anise - Cinnamon - Licorice - Ginger - Coffee from Kenya - Coffee Maragogype - Instant coffee - Natural rose aroma - Natural flavoring of apricot - Natural flavoring of strawberry - Natural flavoring of raspberry - Natural flavoring of cherry
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- Natural flavoring of green apple
Other: - Stabilizer : sorbitol (E420) - Thickening : pectin (E440) - Albumin - Splits of thin pancakes (wheat flour, sugar, concentrated butter, margarine, skim milk powder, barley malt, salt) - Salt - Water - Unleavened bread - Acidifier: citric acid
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THE PRODUCTS
The zBox collection : “Chic & modern”
Fashioned to mirror the essence of zChocolat's universe, the zBox is a culmination of a decade of efforts from logisticians, to designers and even chocolate makers to revamp the traditional chocolate ballotin. The result is an unparalleled demonstration of chic and modern lines that blend perfectly with the elegant black and white color combination. Learn more.
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The Mahogany collection: “Elegance, intelligence and excellence
Meticulously handcrafted in the Jura region of France by a vanishing breed of fine woodworkers, this opulent collection of mahogany gift boxes exudes the excellence of French savoir-faire. The silky grain and deep reddish hue of this refined material makes for a memorable impression and a treasured keepsake, impeccably finished with a unique serial number carved into its base. Learn more.
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The Basswood collection: “Naturally superb”
Elegance in simplicity could not find a better ambassador! Considered a token of friendship, affection and loyalty, basswood, a naturally blond wood, is an inviting vessel for the treasure within. Its airy exterior is the perfect backdrop to the laser-etched Z on its cover. Sealed with raffia, emphasizing the natural beauty of the case, these hand crafted, finger- jointed boxes are 100% eco-friendly. Learn more.
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The Truffle collection: “Warning: very addictive”
You will savor this collection of rich, dense, traditional French truffles; in fact, you may not be willing to share. Each morsel boasts a nuanced combination of crunch and silkiness; a crisp outer cover gives way to a velvety core. Your palate first encounters a concentrated dusting of pure cocoa powder, followed by an intense shell of dark Venezuelan chocolate, all housing a creamy Piedmont hazelnut praliné filling. Learn more.
Assortment collection: “The marrow of French know-how”
Immerse yourself into the marrow of French know-how with a collection dedicated to pure gourmet bliss. Perfect to sample zChocolat recipes for the first time, refill existing zChocolat boxes or simply send as gifts, our assortments are certified to confer an utmost tasting experience for you and your gift recipients. Learn more.
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The Romantic collection: “A French chocolate kiss”
The French are experts in all things of love and romance and chocolate is no exception. This Valentine's Day, February 14th, send a chocolaty cupids' arrow with this collection as it unveils our signature numbered chocolates with delectable heart-shaped pieces in 4 sumptuous colors and flavors. Learn more.
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The Birthday collection: “A birthday wish come true”
Pamper someone on their birthday with thoughtfulness and flair; a picture-perfect way to say "Happy Birthday" with panache. Add a special message via laser-engraving: name, date of birth, notable quotation or your personal sentiment; all conveying how much you feel they deserve a truly exceptional gift. Learn more.
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The “With Love from Provence” collection: “A taste of southern France”
Offer the most delicious flavors of Provence with our savoury Provence Collection. Filled with traditional recipes rooted into southern France's culture, this variety of tempting boxes regroups calissons d'Aix, nougats, pâtes de fruits and more! Learn more.
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The Thank you collection: “Gratifying gratefulness”
Our Thank You Collection gives you nine scrumptious ways to express appreciation and gratitude. Personalize each box with the recipient's name as well as a short message. To top off your thanks, each box contains an assortment of Pascal Caffet's award winning, Z chocolates – delighting your lucky recipient while conveying your appreciation with aplomb. Learn more.
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The Get Well collection : « A delicious picker-upper”
Know someone under stress? There are few better ways to brighten their day than with one of our survival kits. A buoyant way to rejuvenate the mind, body and taste buds! Customized with your recipient's name or a spirit-lifting quote, these cleverly decorated boxes contain an uplifting assortment of exquisite chocolates to ease almost any worry. A red flashlight keychain with a compass and whistle accompanies each box in this collection. Learn more.
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The Wedding collection: “Amorous decadence”
Celebrate and honor marriage with style and flair – for those just beginning and those standing the test of time. This entire line of stunning, keepsake boxes can be customized with a photographic image, names, wedding date, quote d'amour, and more. We offer an array of possibilities – from petite boxes, perfect for wedding favors, to stately, engraved mahogany boxes so grand they may outshine the cake!. Learn more.
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The Hobbies collection: “Acknowledge An Avocation”
From a simple game of cards to an adventurous excursion finishing by an exotic destination, hobbies, like chocolate, inspire our passions and bring joy to our lives. These elegant mahogany-wood gift boxes feature golden inlaid cravings on the lid as well as accessories attached to the gift to further echo the theme of each hobby. A beautiful gift covering a wide array of hobbies. Learn more.
Party Favors: “Making Memories”
An unforgettable party favor, original birth announcement, or tasteful seminar handout, these customizable boxes will mark your special occasion as an event to remember. Learn more.
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Business gift-giving
With over 5,000 corporate customers in 88 countries, we at zChocolat realize how crucial business gift giving is for affirming established relationships and cultivating new ones. We offer sophisticated alternatives to traditional corporate gift baskets.
Contact our Business Gift Manager today for advice, a quote or a sample:
Ms. Nathalie Bach
Direct line: 1-800-529-9512 from North America Direct line: +33 (0)4.42.91.43.66 rest of the world Mobile: +33 (0)6.28.65.12.98 E-mail : [email protected] 5, rue Fabrot – 13100 Aix-en-Provence – FRANCE
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CONTACT AND LINKS
Adria HIGDON PR & Special Events Manager
5, rue Fabrot – 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Direct line : +33 (0)4.42.91.43.67 Direct line : 1-800-529-9512 Toll-free from North America
Mobile : +33 (0)6.29.78.12.76 E-mail : [email protected]
Website www.zchocolat.com
Pressbook http://www.zchocolat.com/default.asp?target=nope#/zchocolat/press
Social media http://www.facebook.com/zchocolat http://instagram.com/zchocolat http://www.youtube.com/zchocolat http://vimeo.com/zchocolat
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