(Additional reporting by Bea McDonald)
A chocolate maker who has bucked retail trends by moving her business on to a Staffordshire High Street has praised the people of Stone for their support.
Michaela Jones, of Mishka Truffles and café, says she has been on a “fantastic journey” since opening her new shop eight weeks ago – and business is thriving.
Michaela had established Mishka Truffles as a firm online favourite with chocolate lovers before making the leap to opening a high street store in April.
She said: “We have been busier than I could have ever imagined. There’s a regular flow of customers from the minute we open until late afternoon, and we have people who call in several times a week.
“Our speciality truffles, chocolate cheesecakes and waffles are flying out of the door. People love coming in for coffee, or hot chocolate.”
Based on the early success, Michaela has now expanded her range – including savoury home-made Zapekanka open baguettes and afternoon cream teas.
Prior to opening the store, Michaela, who had been diagnosed as an adult with bipolar disorder and ADHD, told Daily Focus how chocolate making had become her therapy and said she wanted to use her story to help others.
And to highlight her success, Michaela has entered Mishka Truffles into the High Street Impact category of the Staffordshire University Business Awards.
She explained: “I am now in my happy place and if my story helps just one person to see they can overcome mental health issues and succeed, I will have achieved a lot.
“Alongside that, I can now testify that the love people have shown me here, and the appetite they have for a new business on their High Street to succeed, is a powerful force for good.”
Michaela has future plans to open chocolate themed cafes in several locations in the Midlands and North West England.
