A Wiltshire chocolatier has boosted its production after an Invest in Wiltshire grant.

Coco Chemistry, known for its handmade luxury chocolate products, received a £6,100 grant from the Wiltshire Council scheme.

The grants, financed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and Rural Prosperity Fund, are intended to help businesses improve productivity by purchasing new equipment, machinery, or digital infrastructure, as well as improving premises and creating workspaces.

All applicants were required to demonstrate how they would create new or more skilled jobs, and reduce their carbon footprint.

Coco Chemistry, which has been producing chocolate in Coate, near Devizes, since 2017, wanted to streamline its production, increase productivity, and decarbonise its processes.

The grant allowed the company to invest in a Firex caramel-making machine, which they have named 'Big Jim.'

The new machine dramatically reduces labour time and energy input, as it replaces multiple smaller, less-efficient machines.

Dr Richard Phillips, Coco Chemistry's director, said: "Securing the Invest in Wiltshire grant has significantly enhanced our caramel production capacity by over 400 per cent, achieved through improved efficiency and reduced energy consumption.

"This advancement enables us to fulfil orders more swiftly, allowing us to accept additional orders and produce even more high-quality chocolate."

Councillor Richard Clewer, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: "Invest in Wiltshire was a huge success, we received 55 applications and added additional money to the pot increasing the grants to £1.83m.

"This grant gives businesses in Wiltshire a chance to grow and flourish by providing them with another opportunity to achieve longer-term success."

Councillor Clewer praised Coco Chemistry's successful application and the significant difference it has made for them.

He said: "Coco Chemistry has proven how beneficial it is to apply to one of our business schemes, it has made a real difference to them.

"It’s fantastic that we’re able to champion these quality Wiltshire producers, and we’re excited to see how the other businesses have invested their grants and the positive outcomes it will have for their businesses.

"We’re committed to having a thriving economy in our Business Plan and this is just one of the things we’ve implemented to make this a reality."

The grant scheme has helped several businesses in the region, with many expected to benefit in a similar manner to Coco Chemistry.