Academy of Chocolate Webinar – From Bean to Border: Navigating Craft Chocolate Across the UK, US & Europe
EVENT DETAILS
Date : Monday, 7th September 2026
Time : 19:00-20:00 BST (UK) / 19:00-20:00 WEST (Portugal) / 14:00-15:00 EDT (US Eastern)
Price : Free of Charge
Zoom link will be shared via registered email prior to event. Webinar recording video will be available exclusively to AOC members.
Registration deadline: Sunday, 6th Sep 2026, 12:00 BST (UK)
📍Online – Register now for your complimentary ticket
ABOUT THIS EVENT
What makes a craft chocolate market thrive?
Beyond the chocolate itself, a wider ecosystem of consumers, retailers, educators, judges, events and industry communities shapes how craft chocolate is discovered, understood and enjoyed.
In this hour-long Academy of Chocolate webinar, we bring together three renowned chocolate judges and industry experts from the United Kingdom, United States and Portugal:
- Tommy Purkis – United Kingdom
- Nettie Atkisson – United States
- Rosario da Cunha Brandão – Portugal
Each panellist brings first-hand experience of their local market through judging, hosting chocolate tastings for private and corporate groups, and participating in chocolate festivals and industry events around the world.
Together, we’ll explore how consumer tastes and expectations differ across markets, what local palates tell us about chocolate preferences, and the role of retail, education, awards, events and industry communities in shaping the craft chocolate landscape.
Looking beyond makers and products, our panellists will share insights from the different perspectives they bring to the industry, exploring what makes each market unique and what different chocolate communities can learn from one another.
The event will be hosted by Cherrie Lo, a Board Member of the Academy of Chocolate and a long-standing Grand Jury judge for chocolate awards. With 18 years of experience in the chocolate industry, Cherrie has frequently appeared on global television and in magazines to promote the art of chocolate. She will be joined by a distinguished panel of chocolate experts & award judges for an engaging and insightful discussion.
What can different chocolate markets learn from each other – and what does it take to build a truly thriving craft chocolate culture?
We look forward to having you join us on this chocolate journey!
Panelists:
Tommy Purkis – United Kingdom
Nettie Atkisson – United States
Rosario da Cunha Brandão – Portugal
Moderator:
Cherrie Lo – AOC Board Member
Spaces are limited – secure your spot to stay informed and connected within the cocoa industry.
