- The video shows Beerntsen’s Candies selling Easter candy.
- The rise in cocoa prices has not significantly affected their business.
- Customers say their chocolate shopping habits will change, but they won’t be able to quit.
(The following is a transcript of the full broadcast content)
One local candy store says Easter is one of its biggest selling holidays, so we asked if the rise in cocoa prices is impacting their business.
“I’ve been in this business almost my entire life,” Behrendsen said.
Blake Beernsen says he consumes more than 5,000 pounds of milk chocolate each Easter season.
He blames the soaring cocoa prices on poor harvests.
“They’re asking for a 28 to 40 percent increase. We’ll see if we really get there,” Behrendsen said.
He said some specialty chocolates have increased in price by about $1 a pound, but the rise in cocoa prices doesn’t necessarily worry him.
“For bulk chocolate, it’s almost a one-year contract, so you won’t really see a price increase until November, end of November, early December,” Behrundsen said.
According to CNBC, the price of cocoa futures contracts for May delivery this year has reached an all-time high.
Blake says the fluctuations are normal and he’s seen them before.
Ann Smith, a customer at Beerntsen’s, said she would make some changes if there was a price increase.
“As much as I love chocolate, I would lean a little more into my Easter basket and look for chocolate alternatives, candy or small toys,” Smith said.
But supporting local businesses is important to her.
“I love this place. I always come here on holidays. It’s just good chocolate and you know, it’s a little bit special,” Smith said.
Molly and Julia Gutowski say rising prices won’t stop them from buying chocolate.
“It’s not for special occasions or special treats. I think you deserve a little extra treat once in a while, don’t you?” Molly said.
Especially not when you can get chocolate covered Oreos.
“How wonderful it is…it’s no surprise,” Julia said.
Between customized fudge eggs and solid chocolate bunnies, Blake says he doesn’t think chocolate consumers need to fear rising cocoa prices.
“Easter is truly a chocolate holiday,” Behrendsen laughed. “Please come and buy some chocolate.”
Beerntsen’s is usually open seven days a week in case you need some last-minute chocolate.
