Number of chocolatiers in Belgium doubled in five years

The number of chocolatiers active in Belgium has doubled in five years, reports the National Union for the Self-Employed (NSI) based on data from the FPS Economy. In 2009, there were 259 chocolatiers working in the country, compared to 543 this year, writes Het Laatste Nieuws.

According to NSI, more and more bakers are specialising in chocolate, in many cases to move away from the night work required for baking.

A survey of 41 chocolatiers shows that allergen-free chocolate is increasingly popular among Belgian consumers.

photo: Visit Flanders