Economy Valentine’s Day gifts adapt to cacao price hikes

[thomas]

Department stores are trying to soften the impact of steep Valentine's Day prices as they head into the peak gift-buying season, amid rising cocoa costs. To attract customers despite higher prices, retailers are pairing premium chocolates with chef-led tasting events and expanding their ranges to include non-chocolate sweets. Sogo & Seibu Co., for example, has doubled its selection of alternatives while lifting chocolate prices by almost 30% from last year.

The expanded lineup includes baked items such as sable cookies and galettes, as well as gummies. Among the featured products is a chocolate-like sweet made from crushed whole coffee beans, sold in packs of 12 for ¥2,090, tax included.

Takashimaya Co. is also widening its range of products that do not use cacao beans; its cube-shaped Pave de Possibilite uses the substitute ingredient "Anoza M" made from peas and other ingredients. A box of 25 pieces sells for 2,160 yen, including tax, making it about 20% cheaper than comparable chocolate boxes. Mitsukoshi Isetan Corp. has likewise introduced more products that contain less chocolate and instead incorporate more fruits and nuts. Some department stores are also finding new ways to sell chocolate. At Matsuya Ginza, about 30% of the 74 participating brands are offering eat‑in options or live demonstrations. One highlight is a course prepared right in front of customers by the pastry chef of a French restaurant in Tokyo's Roppongi district. Reservations are required and can cost up to 18,700 yen, including tax.

Valentine’s Day gift options expand due to steep cacao costs | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis

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