Sunrise invests in chocolate brand Little Secrets

US-based venture capital company Sunrise Strategic Partners has invested in clean-label chocolate brand Little Secrets.

Little Secrets was founded in 2015 in Boulder, Colorado, and primarily manufactures chocolates and chocolate crispy wafers using Fair Trade ingredients.

Little Secrets founder and CEO Chris Mears said: “Sunrise brings growth expertise and capital that will enable us to focus on business expansion and strengthen our team.

“When I started Little Secrets, I wanted to create a chocolate candy that was delicious and a slightly less guilty pleasure.

“I’m now looking forward to expanding our product line across other proven forms, and to bringing Little Secrets to more consumers across the country.”

The latest development marks Sunrise’s ninth investment initiative since its launch in 2016.

Sunrise Strategic Partners co-founder and CEO Steve Hughes said: “When Chris left Boulder Brands to start Little Secrets, I was excited for him but sad to see him go.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with him again on such an exciting business.

“Chris has done a terrific job bringing real innovation to the world of clean-label chocolate and we believe Little Secrets is an inflection point, as evidenced by the recent national launch of pieces and crispy wafers at Whole Foods.”

Little Secrets intends leverage the investment to increase its distribution range and support marketing efforts to reach new consumers.

The chocolate company has launched its products across the US at a variety of retail outlets, including Whole Foods, HEB, Stop & Shop, King Soopers, Natural Grocers, Meijer and Wegmans.

Little Secrets chocolates can also be purchased online via Amazon.