Hotel Chocolat generated a 15% sales rise over the Christmas period.

The retailer said its retail, digital and wholesale businesses all grew in the 13 weeks to December 31.

Over the period 10 new stores opened, bringing the number of branches to 100 in the UK.

The new locations accounted for 6% of the growth during the period.

Hotel Chocolat chief executive Angus Thirlwell highlighted the successful launch of a cocoa beauty line and the introduction of the no-added-sugar Supermilk Pure brand as standouts during the period.

He said: “Constant innovation saw our largest ever seasonal range in Christmas 2017 and we maintained strong availability of products to capitalise on the last minute rush, without any excess stock overhang.”

Hotel Chocolat will report interim results on February 21.