Peterbrooke Chocolatier

Peterbrooke Chocolatier is an independent specialty chocolate retailer and franchisor based in Jacksonville, Florida. The company was founded in 1983 by Phyllis Lockwood Geiger, who opened the first shop in Jacksonville’s San Marco neighborhood with a focus on hand-crafted chocolates made using European techniques and American flavors. This founding vision has shaped Peterbrooke’s reputation for quality and creativity.

Over the past five years, Peterbrooke has continued to evolve, expanding its reach across the Southeast while maintaining its commitment to small-batch production and local ownership. A significant milestone in the company’s history was its shift to a franchise model, which enabled local entrepreneurs to operate stores under the Peterbrooke name. This approach has helped the brand maintain consistent quality and a welcoming customer experience across its locations.

As of November 2025, Peterbrooke Chocolatier operates approximately 24 stores, with a strong concentration in Florida and additional locations in Alabama, North Carolina, and other select Sunbelt markets. The company’s stores are typically found in upscale shopping centers and lifestyle districts, reflecting a preference for boutique spaces that invite foot traffic and community engagement.

Peterbrooke’s product lineup includes signature items such as chocolate-dipped popcorn, pretzels, truffles, and seasonal gift boxes. Stores often feature open kitchens where customers can watch chocolates being made, creating an interactive and inviting retail environment. The brand’s expansion strategy prioritizes quality sites and measured growth, focusing on markets like Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina.

For landlords, brokers, and developers, Peterbrooke Chocolatier brings a proven retail format and regional brand recognition to specialty food retail. The company’s flexible store concepts and emphasis on local ownership make it a desirable tenant for properties seeking experiential and community-focused retail. Over the last five years, Peterbrooke has actively pursued new franchisees and retail locations, leveraging its strong reputation and established retail model to support continued growth in priority markets.