The company, which supplies chocolate pieces for use in manufactured food products, has already used the machinery at its parent company’s plant in the US, and seen it to be “capable of producing flawless intricate chocolate shapes”.
By using the same kit at its plant in Sherburn-in-Elmet, it expects to expand its fair-trade chocolate range and strengthen its position in the competitive UK confectionery market.
Although the company has taken care to retain elements of artisan production so it can offer an alternative to mechanically-made chocolate, it says it “recognises that to stay competitive it has to invest in state of the art machinery”.
“The introduction of the new chocolate making equipment has not tarnished Pecan Deluxe's distinctive identity in the confectionery market but has enhanced it.”
The company currently offers some 250 different inclusions to the market.
Investment in tough times
Although the recession is causing many companies to keep a tight eye on budgets, Pecan Deluxe sees investment in new kit as an investment in the future.
"Despite the country's economic situation Pecan Deluxe is continuing to invest in its facilities and expand its product portfolio. We believe that investing through these turbulent times will ensure that we are able to remain competitive and weather the storm,” said UK managing director Allan Dew.
Indeed the chocolate sector has been seen to be recession-proof to a degree, as consumers trade down on their treats and indulge in relatively cheap edible treats instead of pricier luxuries.
"This year has already been extremely successful for Pecan Deluxe with the launch of our new fiery hot and spicy range and healthy additions. Our new chocolate facility will increase our capacity and enable us to develop even more delectable chocolate creations,” said Dew.