Unfortunately, we have had to vacate our rented factory premises unexpectedly. This leaves us with a very limited manufacturing capacity until we can build new premises from scratch. Hence, we are no longer offering raw cocoa nibs for sale (although we will continue selling raw whole cocoa beans). Also, large orders may take longer to fill. We are very sorry for any inconvenience that this might cause.

The good news is that when the new premises are built (hopefully by early 2008), we will be able to accommodate factory tours and chocolate workshops. You can help us plan our workshops by emailing ideas or expressions of interest to me (Sam).

Also, we've got new machinery in the pipeline that will be ready to come into production in the new premises, including a roll-refiner and a hydraulic cocoa butter press: this will take us two big steps closer to producing a fine eating chocolate!

So, although we're disappointed about having to move, we're really excited about the new chocolate factory. We'll be working to a tight budget, but will be making the factory as eco-friendly as possible by using local and/or renewable materials (for example, we'll be using local Kandos cement, and the main structure will be made of straw bales). My brother (an architect) is helping us put together a beautiful passive solar design, and we'll be collecting rain water and generating as much solar-powered electricity as we can.

Finally, we'd like to say thanks to you, our customers, for all of the wonderful support and encouragement you've given us. Without you, Tava couldn't exist. Thank you!

Sam and Lang