Forging a Sweet Business

Richard and Bette Jo Menzel wanted to build a business that celebrated the Granite State and came across a sweet solution.

The Menzels now run Winsome Forge, LLC in Rochester, which distributes chocolate rocks and seashells made by Fiesta Candy Company, also in Rochester. The candy-coated milk chocolate confections, marketed under Gourmet Granite Chocolates, are indistinguishable from rocks until you bite into them. Winsome Forge began distributing the candy with a NH motif in November 2006 and sales have exceeded the couple's expectations.
Winsome Forge's products are now sold in 40 locations and it is in discussions with Hannaford Supermarkets to distribute through its stores. Winsome Forge also developed a chocolate bar shaped like NH that incorporates the rock pieces. The company is working on new products and is venturing further into developing corporate gifts with private labels. For more information, visit www.winsomeforge.com.