“LEO advisors and staff gave me the confidence to grow and innovate.”

Judit McNally’s journey with chocolate started long before Cocoa by Judit was founded. She trained in Sweden before returning home to Ireland to craft chocolates that are as artistic as they are indulgent.

Founder and owner of Cocoa by Judit, an award winning small‑batch, hand‑painted chocolate producer, Judit insists on combining ethically and sustainably sourced cocoa beans with the finest local ingredients when working from her base, nestled in the heart of West Waterford. Judit is an artisan chocolatier with an impressive level of expertise in the art of confectionery, dedicated to crafting chocolates that captivate the senses and leave an impression. “My journey began in international hospitality, working on board cruise ships, before owning and running my own café and bakery for 19 years.

“After nearly two decades, I was afforded the opportunity to pivot to a business that offered a better work-life balance and allowed me to specialise in something I’m truly passionate about, chocolate.”

The Local Enterprise Office in Waterford has been a great support to Judit as she has developed and grown the business. “Waterford LEO has been an invaluable part of this journey. Their support included small online workshops, guidance on starting a new business, online trading vouchers and access to area-specific mentors and industry professionals. One-to-one advice from LEO advisors and staff gave me the confidence to grow and innovate.

“Looking ahead, with LEO’s continued guidance, I plan to expand my product range and markets, develop Cocoa by Judit into a visitor destination, and contribute to the growth of the Waterford tourism network.

“Our products are available both online and at select specialty food and wine emporiums, allowing us to reach chocolate lovers near and far. Through our online store, we offer seamless delivery of our handcrafted chocolates directly to your door, ensuring you can enjoy West Waterford’s finest wherever you are. For those who prefer a firsthand experience, our products can be found at a curated selection of premium food and wine shops that share our commitment to quality and craftsmanship.”

Local Enterprise Office Waterford is here to help you start a business, expand an existing business or reach new markets. It provides advice, information and supports in starting up or growing your business as part of a network of 31 Local Enterprise Offices across Ireland. 

Contact your Local Enterprise Office Waterford for their latest training programmes, grants and events schedule on www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie for access to all their training support information.

To find out more about Cocoa by Judit see, www.cocoabyjudit.ie