JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa has opened Southern Thailand's first on-site bean-to-bar chocolate factory and boutique, Duc de Praslin Chocolaterie Boutique & Atelier. The launch, held at the resort's Summer Garden Party, turns locally grown Phang Nga cacao into a pod-to-praline experience for guests, positioning the property as a culinary destination in its own right.
A sweet addition to Thailand's hospitality scene
The factory and boutique were developed in partnership with Duc de Praslin, a Thai chocolatier with Belgian roots, and highlight the cacao heritage of Phang Nga, a region gaining recognition as a promising cacao-growing area. Abhimanyu Singh, Area General Manager, emphasized the resort's commitment to authenticity: "Rooted in Chocolate is exactly that idea, brought to life."
Guests can participate in interactive workshops, tastings, and chocolate-themed menus, all designed to showcase the craftsmanship behind each bar. The resort sources at least 85% of its cacao from local farmers, ensuring a stable income for the community. Jean-Louis Graindorge, owner of Duc de Praslin, noted, "Working directly with Phang Nga’s farming cooperatives gives farmers a stable, predictable income."
Experiential offerings and future plans
The boutique's debut featured cacao-infused cocktails, tasting stations, and a chocolate-inspired dinner. Looking ahead, the resort plans to expand with family-friendly classes and seasonal menus, further integrating cacao into its culinary experiences. This initiative not only supports local farmers but also enhances the resort's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
For travel professionals, this development underscores a broader trend of experiential and locally sourced offerings in luxury hospitality. Similar moves are seen across the region, such as Thailand's wellness tourism push and targeted stay packages for GCC travelers. The chocolate factory adds a unique culinary angle that could appeal to food-focused travelers and MICE groups seeking distinctive team-building activities.
JW Marriott Khao Lak joins a growing list of Marriott properties innovating in the region, following Marriott's Series brand debut in New Caledonia and Courtyard by Marriott's entry into Ghaziabad. The resort's chocolate initiative is a case study in how hotels can leverage local agricultural heritage to create memorable guest experiences while supporting regional economies.
As the travel industry continues to emphasize sustainability and authenticity, properties like JW Marriott Khao Lak are setting a benchmark. The bean-to-bar concept not only differentiates the resort but also provides a model for other hospitality operators looking to integrate local sourcing into their F&B operations.
