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Issaquah, WA

Expanding retail chocolate shops to bring rare Peruvian cacao-based products to more communities.

• Rare Cacao Source: Uses a unique, thought-to-be-extinct variety of cacao from northern Peru.
• Sustainable Practices: Direct partnerships with over 500 independent cacao farmers.
• Proven Track Record: 16 years in the chocolate industry with successful retail and ecommerce pivots.
• Product Innovation: Developed 60+ delicious chocolate products.
• Growth Potential: Plans to expand profitable retail shops across the greater Seattle area and beyond.

Fortunato Chocolate is on a mission to bring world-class chocolate made from a rare and exceptional variety of cacao sourced directly from northern Peru to more communities through retail expansion. With 16 years of expertise in the chocolate industry, the company has cultivated strong relationships with over 500 independent cacao farmers, ensuring a transparent and sustainable supply chain. Fortunato Chocolate initially operated as a wholesaler, supplying premium chocolate to high-end restaurants and chocolatiers across more than 30 countries. When the pandemic disrupted its wholesale operations, the company pivoted to ecommerce and retail, successfully launching two profitable shops in its hometown of Issaquah, WA.

Now, Fortunato Chocolate aims to expand its retail presence, focusing on the greater Seattle area with plans to grow nationally. This expansion will allow the company to increase cacao purchases from its farming partners, create more unique chocolate products, and make its award-winning chocolate accessible to a broader audience. The company’s deep connection to its cacao source, combined with its dedication to quality and sustainability, positions it uniquely in the premium chocolate market. By investing in Fortunato Chocolate, supporters contribute to the growth of a family-owned business that is committed to ethical sourcing, delicious products, and positive social impact for cacao farming communities.

Company Info

Fortunato Chocolate produces high-quality chocolate from a rare Peruvian cacao, expanding retail operations while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Fortunato Chocolate produces exquisite chocolate made from a rare variety of cacao sourced directly from farmers in the northern Peruvian jungle. Founded by brothers Brian Horsley and Adam Pearson, the company began as a wholesale operation supplying high-end restaurants and chocolatiers, primarily in Europe. Following the impact of COVID-19, the company pivoted to a direct-to-consumer model with an e-commerce website and opened its first retail shop in 2021. Fortunato Chocolate has since expanded to two retail locations and developed 60 unique products, all while continuing to support over 500 independently owned cacao farms. The company’s mission is to create the best chocolate possible and sell it at affordable prices, while fostering strong relationships with its farming partners.

Now, Fortunato Chocolate seeks to expand its retail presence, targeting the greater Seattle area and beyond. With a profitable track record in smaller markets, the company aims to scale its retail operations to meet growing consumer demand and to further support the cacao farming community in northern Peru. Fortunato Chocolate stands out not only for its unique product but also for its commitment to sustainability, fair trade, and community impact.