British Chocolate Maker Marasu's Petit Fours and Parent Company Prestat File for Insolvency London, April 4, 2026
Marasu's Petit Fours, a British luxury chocolate manufacturer, and its parent company, Prestat Group, have filed for insolvency amid rising cocoa prices and industry challenges.
Rising Cocoa Prices and Industry Struggles
The global chocolate industry has faced significant pressure due to soaring cocoa prices, driven by diseases and extreme weather conditions in major producing countries like Ghana and the Ivory Coast. These challenges have disrupted supply chains and increased production costs for manufacturers worldwide. Marasu's Petit Fours, which produced over 300 tonnes of sweets annually, was among the companies affected by these market conditions.
Founded in 1986 by Rolf Kern and Gabi Kohler, Marasu's Petit Fours built a reputation for high-quality luxury chocolates. The company supplied premium products to renowned retailers such as Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges, and Harrods. Despite its strong market presence, the financial strain from rising raw material costs proved insurmountable.
Royal Connections and Acquisition Plans
Prestat Group, which acquired Marasu's Petit Fours in 2006, also filed for administration. The company held two royal warrants and was a longtime supplier to the British royal family, including Princess Diana. In 2003, The Economist ranked Prestat as one of the three best chocolate shops in the world, underscoring its prestige in the industry.
As part of a "pre-pack" insolvency deal, Prestat is set to be acquired by L'Artisan du Chocolat, a chocolate manufacturer owned by Polus Capital Management. This move aims to preserve the brand's legacy while addressing its financial difficulties. Prestat's online shop will remain operational during the transition, ensuring continued access to its products for customers.
The insolvency filings mark the end of an era for Marasu's Petit Fours and a significant shift for Prestat, which has been a staple of British chocolate craftsmanship for decades. The acquisition by L'Artisan du Chocolat offers a potential path forward, but the challenges facing the broader industry remain unresolved.