Jeanette and Kevin Darwen of Silky Oak have been supplying delicious chocolates to the Hawke’s Bay and Bay of Plenty region since the start of the millennium.
What is your company background, how did you start the business?
“The business commenced as Kramer’s Chocolates in 1959, we purchased it in Jan 2000, changed the name to The Silky Oak Chocolate Co Ltd, and moved it from the Napier industrial area to its present location in Links Rd.”
What is the current product range and variants and how do these products stand out in the market?
“The chocolates are made using couverture chocolate. We make the centres here on site from the raw ingredients using traditional methods, we believe we are the only company in NZ hand making traditional crème centres. We produce a large range of chocolates and our own marshmallow, plus we make fudge, gelato and sorbets. For our on-site pantry shop we make relishes, vinaigrettes and conserves.”
Has there been any recent company news?
“We recently opened our Pantry Shop showcasing our own products, plus locally and NZ made products.”
Where are your products currently available to buy, and are you looking at or wanting to expand your availability?
“Our products are available at our Napier premises, online website www.silkyoakchocs.co.nz, or at our Tauranga shop. Our Marshmallow Easter Eggs are sold through Moore Wilson, Farro Fresh plus a number of smaller specialist stores.”
