We are happy that CocoaTown’s President & Co-Founder Ms. Andal Balu has been reelected to the board. She is happy to be part of the FCIA board which comprises 50% women and represents minorities. She will be working on empowering minorities (race, religion, economic status, gender etc) and work with FCIA to broadcast its all inclusive policies so more minorities will join the association. FCIA is open to members from around the world. We welcome you to join FCIA. Please reach out to us or FCIA if you have any questions.

Here is the article about FCIA Board written by FCIA President Bill Guyton and appeared on Pastry Magazine:

Bill Guyton | November 23, 2020 | Pastry Arts Magazine

The Fine Chocolate Industry Association (FCIA) is pleased to announce the following board members for the 2021-2022 term:

• Brad Kintzer TCHO Chocolate (President)
• Lauren Adler Chocolopolis (Vice President)
• Daniel Domingo Cocoa Latitudes (Secretary/Treasurer)
• Maricel Presilla International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting/Gran Cacao
• Simran Bindra Kokoa Kamili, Ltd
• Dahlia Graham Fruition Chocolate Works
• Benjamin Figarede Valrhona
• Andal Balu Cocoatown
• Clark Guittard Guittard Chocolate Company
• Jean Thompson Seattle Chocolate Company
• Greg D’alesandre Dandelion Chocolate
• Laura Santo Blommer Chocolate Company

The new board reflects the diversity of FCIA’s growing membership. “We are excited that chocolate makers, chocolatiers, traders, specialty retailers and processors are well represented on our leadership team for the next two years,” stated Bill Guyton, Executive Director.

In response to the COVID pandemic, FCIA’s current board developed and launched a new consumer facing website earlier this year to promote online sales. Make Mine Fine Marketplace has listings of over 100 chocolate companies and equipment suppliers as well as educational content about fine chocolate and cocoa growing. FCIA also hosts weekly educational webinars on topics tailored for FCIA members and partners.

ABOUT THE FINE CHOCOLATE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (FCIA) —

FICA is the only organization focused 100% on supporting fine chocolate professionals representing over 300 members. The association promotes the artistry and craftsmanship of the chocolate professional focused on producing superior products made from premium chocolate and natural ingredients. FCIA believes in using best practices in cacao processing and chocolate production; and transparent labeling and marketing practices. For more information on FCIA, please visit: https://www.finechocolateindustry.org

For Original article, please visit Fine Chocolate Trade Organization Welcomes Diverse New Board for 2021-22