FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Julie Richter |Charles Zukow Associates 415.296.0677 |[email protected] Ghirardelli Chocolate Company invites you to drip hot fudge on their new floors! The Original Ghirardelli Chocolate Manufactory reopens after extensive two-month renovation SAN FRANCISCO (March 24, 2015)- Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, San Francisco’s premier chocolate manufacturer, invites San Francisco residents and visitors to enjoy a sundae and drip hot fudge on the new floors of the newly remodeled Original Ghirardelli Chocolate Manufactory at Ghirardelli Square (900 North Point Street, San Francisco 94109). Having first opened its doors in 1967, the Manufactory recently underwent an extensive two month renovation. Now, the shop has reopened, offering guests the original Ghirardelli experience with a fresh new look while keeping the same heritage look and feel that families have come to know. “For nearly 50 years, the Ghirardelli Chocolate Manufactory has provided unforgettable experiences for Bay Area residents and visitors alike,” says Marty Thompson, Ghirardelli President and CEO. “We are excited to have restored, repaired and remodeled a location that celebrates our history and the complete Ghirardelli experience.” More than 160 years of Ghirardelli heritage is celebrated at the Original Ghirardelli Chocolate Manufactory. The location holds the original manufactory equipment, which first came to Ghirardelli Square in 1893. The walls inside the shop are now lined with artwork and artifacts direct from Ghirardelli’s vaults, including original packaging from the 1800s through the early 1900s and rare photos from the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco. The displays have been carefully curated, telling the story of the Ghirardelli heritage and its impact in the City. Guests can enjoy the Ghirardelli World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae, shakes and hot cocoa, and a full line of espresso beverages at the original Ghirardelli Chocolate Manufactory. In addition to a delicious assortment of chocolates and beautifully wrapped gifts, the store now carries a full, expanded selection of exclusive Ghirardelli Artisan Chocolatier products, made fresh daily in San Francisco at Ghirardelli Square. Even sweeter, each guest is greeted with a complimentary sample of their signature Ghirardelli SQUARES™ chocolate. For additional photos, contact [email protected]. ### ABOUT THE GHIRARDELLI CHOCOLATE COMPANY Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, the Bay Area's first chocolate manufacturer, has a rich and vibrant history, beginning with the fascinating story of Domenico Ghirardelli, an Italian confectioner. After spending several years in South America operating Domingo's Chocolates, Ghirardelli landed in San Francisco and started the world- famous Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. With Ghirardelli’s vision in mind, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company pioneered innovations in bean roasting and became the first company to introduce bittersweet chocolate chips. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company is a manufacturer and marketer of premium chocolate products who recently celebrated 162 years of chocolate making. Incorporated in 1852, Ghirardelli has an incredibly rich American history. As America’s oldest operating chocolate manufacturer, Ghirardelli has established its position as the country’s Premium Chocolate Company. Ghirardelli’s product line includes its signature Squares™ chocolate, the new minis chocolate line, Intense Dark™ chocolate, Gourmet Milk™ chocolate, Ghirardelli Chocolate Bars, other chocolate confections, baking chocolate and beverages. These items are sold through select specialty stores, grocery stores, drug stores, mass merchandisers and department stores. In addition, Ghirardelli sells a line of premium chocolate, syrups and drinks for the Food Service channel. Ghirardelli currently owns and operates 24 retail stores in seven states, including the Original Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop located in San Francisco’s historic Ghirardelli Square. For more information about Ghirardelli, visit www.ghirardelli.com. .