How Galvin Weston is celebrating a century-and-a-half of luxury at Charbonnel et Walker

As the historic chocolate-maker marks its 150th anniversary, we speak with Galvin Weston, Chair of Charbonnel et Walker about how the brand is honouring this milestone, what he's learned about the luxury customer, and the founding principles that guide the brand

Walpole: You’ve been Director of Charbonnel et Walker since 1999. What is your single proudest achievement in this time?

Galvin Weston: I’m immensely proud of how we’ve preserved the craftsmanship and heritage that define Charbonnel et Walker. Seeing the brand continue to grow globally, without compromising on quality or tradition has been deeply rewarding. To now have reached a 150-year milestone is a very proud moment indeed. 

What is the single biggest change you’ve seen from a customer perspective during your tenure – and how has the brand responded to this?

There are two changes here, both important. Customers today are more curious about what they are buying as well as the story behind the brand. They also want to see innovation and newness. We’ve responded by being more transparent about our artisanal processes, championing our British craftsmanship, and developing new collections that balance innovation with our classic recipes. It’s about staying relevant without losing what we are known for.

Charbonnel et Walker is celebrating its 150th anniversary – a phenomenal achievement. What are the hallmarks of the brand that still guide you today?

Thank you. These hallmarks would be exceptional quality, British heritage, and timeless elegance. The business was founded on these principles in 1875 by Mme Charbonnel and Mrs Walker – this is evident from our archives and the press at that time. These principles are still just as important to us today, and inform many of the decisions we make from the sourcing of our ingredients, to the craftsmanship of our chocolates, and the presentation of each gift box. 

What are you doing as a company to celebrate this achievement both internally and externally with customers?

The very first Charbonnel et Walker store opened on 22nd November 1875. Our Christmas collections celebrate this 150th anniversary: illustrated with train carriages to reference the journey both ladies took from Paris to London, our gift selections include famous classics with Rose and Violet Creams and Enrobed Dark Chocolate Stem Ginger to specially created Christmas flavours of Spiced Raspberry and Orange & Cinnamon. We hosted a wonderful 150-year event at our flagship store in the Royal Arcade on Old Bond Street in London very recently to commemorate this remarkable journey.

What is your favourite specific element of these birthday celebrations?

I’m particularly fond of the story behind the Christmas collections; the illustrations and contents beautifully encapsulate our history, while introducing subtle, modern touches. It represents everything we stand for: continuity, artistry, and a deep respect for tradition. Seeing customers old and new discover that story through the Christmas collections is a privilege.

What is a challenge for the company and how are you navigating this?

Like many heritage brands, our challenge lies in balancing tradition with innovation. Consumers’ expectations evolve rapidly, particularly in digital engagement and sustainability. My role is to ensure we move forward thoughtfully, investing in new technologies, greener practices, and new markets – while protecting the brand’s authenticity and long-standing values.

How are you safeguarding the company for the next 150 years?

We still make many of our chocolates to traditional recipes and crafted by hand. We want to ensure we retain these artisanal skills whilst also broadening our international reach. Charbonnel et Walker is a very personal brand where generations have gifted our chocolates to their children and grandchildren for very special occasions. We hope this meaningful connection continues to flourish for generations to come.

What’s the next big trend in luxury retail (and how are you embracing it)?

We are asked more frequently for bespoke items. Storytelling also remains at the heart of modern luxury – customers want experiences that feel meaningful and tailored to them. For us, that means enhancing our direct-to-consumer channels, creating more immersive brand experiences, and developing collections that reflect individual tastes while staying true to our heritage. In essence, it’s about making heritage feel personal.

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