The Sweet Beginning: The Origin Story of The Margaret River Chocolate Company
Have you ever wondered how a small chocolate factory in Western Australia became a global sensation? Let’s dive into the origin story of The Margaret River Chocolate Company and discover why it’s now one of the must-visit attractions in Margaret River and the Swan Valley.
From Humble Beginnings to Sweet Success
From its humble beginnings in a tin shed on a working dairy farm in 1999, The Margaret River Chocolate Company has grown into a world-class chocolate destination. Nestled in the heart of the Margaret River wine region, it quickly became a favourite stop for locals and travellers alike. Generations of Western Australians have grown up with “the chocolate factory,” making it an iconic part of the state’s food and tourism story.
Breaking Boundaries and Winning Awards
From the start, the company has been driven by a passion for quality, innovation, and handcrafted chocolate. Its chocolatiers continue to push the boundaries with new flavours, techniques, and creations. That commitment has paid off: The Margaret River Chocolate Company is consistently the most highly awarded chocolate company at the Perth Royal Food Awards and has been featured in hundreds of local, national, and international media stories, TV shows, and online features.
Expanding to the Swan Valley and Beyond
Success led to expansion, with the company opening a second chocolate factory in the Swan Valley wine region in 2000. Just a year later, it was officially opened by then Prime Minister John Howard, who called The Margaret River Chocolate Company a “gold medal business.” Since then, a Perth city retail store and a thriving online chocolate store have followed, making it easier than ever to enjoy their creations.
Chocolate Experiences You Can’t Miss
With over 200 premium chocolate products to choose from, visitors are spoiled for choice. At both the Margaret River Chocolate Factory and the Swan Valley Chocolate Factory, guests can enjoy:
- Free chocolate tastings every day
- The chance to watch expert chocolatiers in action
- A cozy café serving decadent desserts and hot drinks
- A delicious range of handmade chocolate gifts, truffles, and bars
It’s the perfect family-friendly attraction in Western Australia’s wine regions, whether you’re on a Margaret River getaway or a day trip from Perth to the Swan Valley.
If you can't make it out to visit the factories, the Perth City Store is perfect to indulge and shop their chocolate products while enjoying free tastings.
A Global Following, Rooted in WA
While it has fans all over the world, The Margaret River Chocolate Company remains proudly Western Australian. Its Margaret River and Swan Valley factories welcome millions (quite literally) of visitors each year, while its chocolates continue to delight locals who’ve grown up with the brand.
Visit The Margaret River Chocolate Company
The story of The Margaret River Chocolate Company is proof that a bold dream can grow into something extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a wine tour in Margaret River, exploring the Swan Valley food and wine trail, or simply searching for the best chocolate in Perth, a visit to “the chocolate factory” is an absolute must.
Life’s too short for anything less than great chocolate.