Meet Pete

Peter Gardner, the founder of BABAO CACAO, has a diverse background in hospitality and chocolate-making. In 2008, Pete ventured into the world of chocolate, opening Chocolate Alchemy in Loughborough. Despite no formal training, he honed his skills through online resources and dedication. In 2013 he opened Cocoa Amore earning a reputation for crafting high-quality handmade chocolates in the Midlands.

Pete's latest venture, BABAO CACAO, stems from a unique insight gained during an industry presentation at Leicester College in May 2023, where he discovered the potential of cacaofruit juice. This inspired him to develop a sustainable beverage utilising the often-wasted cacaofruit pulp, aiming to introduce a novel product to the UK market. Throughout his journey, Pete has emphasized learning, innovation, and sustainability in the food and beverage sector. His experiences highlight the importance of adaptability and transforming challenges into opportunities. 

Pete aims to positively impact the entire cacao supply chain, demonstrating that businesses can effectively balance quality, sustainability, and community support.

Continue to follow our adventures in our Blog