Chocolate franchise, The Chocolate Room, has announced the opening of four more franchises, taking the total stores throughout Australia up to 14. The latest store to open on 11 December was in South Morang, with franchises in Cairns and Sydney's Paramatta and Burwood to follow in January 2009.

Franchisors Jim and Kathy Richardson opened the first store in Geelong, Victoria, back in 2006 and have since experienced rapid growth. The opening of the new stores will take the total number of employees to more than 120, not including the international franchise in India.

Melbourne-based chocolate supplier, Cacao, is the secret behind the delicacies instore. Having won a barrage of accolades, such as three Gold Medals at 2007 Royal Melbourne Dairy Produce Awards and winner of the People's Choice Award 2007 Australian Chocolate Championships, the collaboration between the two chocolatey companies was a natural one. Franchisor Jim Richardson, who owns The Chocolate Room with wife Janet, has revealed that they have plans to not just expand the brand in Australia, but also across Europe. "Janet is currently travelling throughout Europe searching for suitable projects and sites to expand The Chocolate Room further," said Richardson.