Innovation

Éclat is so much more than a high-end chocolate company; the firm's mission is to provide quality chocolate through ethical and sustainable means. Chris conducts business directly with Peruvian farmers that provide cocoa beans for his product, and all trade is conducted fairly. The relationship he has cultivated over the decade with the Peruvian farmers supports the local economy and empowers the farmers. Éclat is able to successfully run by upholding responsible consumption and production that is embedded in their normal business operations.

In comparison to larger chocolate corporations, there is a limited number of intimate relationships with the company and the farmers. Such dynamics have been under a lot of scrutiny within the industry chocolate industry as transparency has been recently desired and expected across all businesses. Éclat keeps in mind ethics and justice in relationships with their farmers.

Inspiration

The inspiration of Éclat comes from Chris' experience in the chocolate industry and cultivating a product composed of ingredients around the world. It is a sum of experiences and cultures within the product itself. Éclat's dream is to share this experience with their customers. Chris started his journey at the House of le Companion de Devoir, the premier guild for Pastry Chefs in France. He worked alongside the best pastry chefs in Europe. Chris has taken his skills from the finest chocolate houses in Belgium, Switzerland, France, Germany, and Japan to create his products. He and his team are proud to share his art and experience through Éclat Chocolates. Additionally, Chris and his team are aware of their environmental footprint and the importance of having sustainable practices in running the business.

Overall impact

Éclat serves as a role model business for others in its efforts to operate sustainability, while continuing to deliver a quality product consumers appreciate. Éclat takes pride in marketing an ethical product in an industry that is notorious for gray areas in production, a lack of transparency in operations, and notoriously exploitative labor practices in the supply chain. Without the sustainable business practices and strategies Éclat utilizes and develops, it would not be the organization it is today, one that is acting as a force for good.

Business benefit

Quality ingredients, the passion behind the product, and the utilization of sustainable business practices are what makes Éclat's chocolate and business model so distinguishable in the industry. Éclat has many personal relationships with their customers and the engagement of conversation has generated a strong and loyal following for the business.

Social and environmental benefit

Éclat also strives to be a force for good in sustainability--the company operates completely on renewable energy wind power. Éclat also works closely with Stroud Water Preserve in striving to preserve clean water supply to neighboring areas, and is highly conscious of limiting food waste, both in donating unused chocolate, and teaching employees strategies in utilizing all ingredients to their fullest capacity. Through providing quality chocolate to its customers, and conducting its business ethically and sustainability, Éclat thrives both within their everyday practices and creates a long-term, sustainable footprint. Éclat helps fulfill the 12th UN goal by practicing responsible consumption and production.

Interview

Christopher Curtin, Owner