Customers have expressed their sadness and disappointment, among “best wishes” to the owners, as one of Ballymena’s popular coffee shops announced on Monday (August 5) that they plan to close.
Chocoa, located at Bryan Street in the town has become a firm favourite for many locals and visitors over the last eight years with their speciality chocolate drinks and treats among other delicacies.
Earlier today the business announced it will close its doors at the end of the month, and although it will most definitely be missed in Ballymena town centre, the business has confirmed it will continue trading online.
In a statement a spokesperson for Chocoa revealed the news saying:
“Just to inform all our wonderful customers, Chocoa’s in person store will be closing with our last trading day on Saturday 31st August.
“Of course we ain’t gonna leave you completely… so fear not folks, we have simply decided to pivot Chocoa in another direction with our online platform.
“We will most definitely be keeping you all stocked up on all that liquid velvety, caramely, creamy, chocolatey goodness you’ve come to know and love from Chocoa… amongst all our other delicious treats and much more to come.
“We’re excited for Chocoas new journey ahead and look forward to boosting our online platform far & wide…so keep your eyes peeled on our website.
“There comes a time when business decisions need to be made from the head and not the heart…and Chocoa has been most definitely an expression of the heart.
“This weekend has also marked 8 years in business so we felt this a fitting time. We are immensely proud of all we have achieved. We set out to design and create a space that was as equally welcoming to all & everyone felt just that little bit special. Seeking out and serving up the best quality produce and creating a brand identity that has become a household name; “Chocoa Chocolate”… the name everyone asks how to say, but whom everyone knows exactly what it delivers… the BEST hot chocolate around.
“Please show your support as we finish these last few weeks. We want to extend our upmost thanks and gratitude for all your love, support and custom over these past eight years! We appreciate every single one of you!
“There have been lots of laughs (with a few tears), Lots of sweet moments ( & lots of hard graft), Lots of growth (along with a few set backs) …but this one thing we know….it has been absolutely EPIC.”
Chocoa will continue trading on Bryan Street up until August 31 - open six days a week - Monday to Wednesday, 9am to 4:30pm, and Thursday to Saturday, 8:30am - 5pm.