Kahului’s own Valley Isle Chocolate has brought home significant honors from the Academy of Chocolate Awards, a globally recognized competition held this year in London. The Maui-based company received a Silver and a Bronze award, marking a noteworthy achievement in the fiercely competitive world of fine chocolate. The Academy of Chocolate Awards, with over 1,400 entries from more than 50 countries in 2025, is a significant benchmark for quality and innovation in the industry. Maui Now's recent report highlighted the company's accomplishment, underscoring the growing recognition of Hawaii’s culinary talent.
For Hawaii's entrepreneurs and investors, the success of Valley Isle Chocolate provides a compelling case study. As a small, artisanal business, Valley Isle Chocolate has demonstrated the potential for local companies to achieve international recognition and compete on a global stage. This showcases the brand-building potential in Hawaii, attracting discerning audiences.
The Academy of Chocolate Awards identifies and celebrates the finest chocolate across the world, providing a platform for makers to showcase their skills. The awards are judged by a panel of experts, ensuring that recognized products meet high standards of taste, technique, and ethical sourcing. The awards are a key to elevating the brand recognition of businesses like Valley Isle Chocolate. This can create opportunities for increased sales and distribution, and also attract investment and partnerships.
The recognition from the Academy of Chocolate Awards aligns with the growth in the craft chocolate industry, which prioritizes quality ingredients, sustainable practices, and unique flavor profiles. The success of Valley Isle Chocolate could further inspire other local businesses to invest in quality, branding, and product innovation to build a strong foundation through success.
