Gorant Chocolatier has sweetened Easter since 1949

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BOARDMAN — Gorant Chocolatier has added sweet treats to Easter baskets since its founding in 1949.

The candymaker produces 75,000 foiled chocolate Easter eggs and 15,000 boxed chocolate Easter eggs per year. This year, customers can expect a combination of fan favorites like chocolate rabbits, as well as newer creations such as chocolate eggs filled with crushed potato chips.

Renee Thompson, manager of the Market Street Factory Store, has been with the company for 22 years.

“We still make our candy the same exact way we always did, using the same quality ingredients that we always have,” she said. “We have our traditional boxed chocolate [and] the eggs that are always a big favorite that come in a variety of flavors. We also have-one ounce eggs.”

Even though the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic has hit during Gorant Chocolatier’s busy season, Thompson said she hasn’t seen the impact of the disease impact business yet.

As of last week, the store is still planning its traditional Easter open house on March 20-22. Customers can stop into the store to get a coupon for $5 off a $25 purchase for that weekend.

In addition, Gorant Chocolatier has introduced online orders and out-of-state shipping in recent years.

The candymaker was founded by brothers Sam and Charles Gorant in Youngstown, who remained owners until Sam Gorant’s death in 1982. Pastel mints were the first candy the Gorant Brothers created and after early success, the duo decided to expand.

“A gentleman, who to this day who remains anonymous, sold them the chocolate recipe along with all of the equipment to make the chocolates,” according to Gorant Chocolatier’s website.

All Gorant products are still created at the candy plant, located at 8301 Market St.

The candy company was purchased by Gorant Chocolatier LLC., managed by Joe Miller, in 2009. Miller is the sole owner.

Thompson said the customers are the reason she’s stayed with the company for so long.

“It’s nice to be family-owned again. It brings a definite family feel to the store and a very positive note,” Thompson said.

Gorant Chocolatier customers can also enjoy candy delivered to their doorstep monthly through the Chocolate-of-the-Month Club. Through the club, chocolate fans can purchase boxed chocolates for three- or six-month stints and choose whether to include nuts in their monthly indulgence.

Additionally, businesses and organizations can fundraise through company’s Easter and candy bar fundraising programs, order candies and chocolates in bulk with corporate products and even partner with to create a private label.

This story was originally published March 16, 2020 at 4:28 AM with the headline "Gorant Chocolatier has sweetened Easter since 1949."