Whittaker’s acts to tackle global cocoa supply challenges

AUCKLAND, Today: Whittaker’s is expanding its cocoa sourcing beyond Ghana, now including beans from other African regions that meet its high quality and ethical standards. Updated packaging rolls out next month.

Co-CEO Matt Whittaker says this shift addresses global cocoa supply challenges. Weather impacts and supply chain issues have hit African harvests, which produce 70% of the world’s cocoa.

With regional harvests down 40%, Whittaker’s is partnering with additional cocoa cooperatives across Africa. “We’re pleased to have identified additional sources in Africa that meet our stringent ethical standards,” Matt says.

Whittaker’s will blend these beans with its Ghanaian cocoa to keep the same taste and quality Chocolate Lovers know and love.

The company remains committed to using only 100% Rainforest Alliance-certified and fully traceable cocoa beans. Matt says quality and transparency are central to Whittaker’s standards.

“We’re pleased to have identified additional sources in Africa that meet our stringent ethical standards.” – Matt Whittaker

Rainforest Alliance certification ensures ethical sourcing and supports farmers in improving working conditions. Traceability allows the cocoa to be traced right to the individual farms.

“In addition to working with Rainforest Alliance, we’re building relationships with new cooperatives and investing in community initiatives,” Matt adds.

Whittaker’s ongoing commitment includes projects like income diversification training and a climate resilience project planting shade trees, benefiting both farmers and cocoa longevity.

The team has been testing various beans and blends to ensure the chocolate’s taste remains unchanged. Matt assures, “Quality has been absolutely critical in our decision-making.”

“We welcome feedback from our Chocolate Lovers and hope they agree that maintaining cocoa quality and ethical standards is essential,” says Matt.

Matt adds, “The global cocoa shortage is likely to continue, impacting chocolate prices. We want to be transparent about why we’re diversifying our cocoa sources.”