Carol Oldbury of Hames Chocolates discusses how the brand develops flavour within its chocolate, and talks through the sustainability policies it has implemented to protect farmers and growers. Chocolate is such a ubiquitous product, it’s easy to overlook the hard work and creative flair that goes into producing one of the world’s favourite sweet treats. New Food interviewed Carol Oldbury, Managing Director of Hames Chocolates, to discuss the latest trends in this indulgent market and learn about its challenges over the past year. Hames Chocolates is the “biggest smallest manufacturer” according to Oldbury; despite not being a household name, plenty of Brits will have unknowingly eaten Hames Chocolates at some point. Hames’ business model is built around providing chocolate for other well-known brands to package in their own branding. In fact, Oldbury revealed that 95 percent of the firm’s chocolate is sold under private labels to more familiar brands and retailers.