International Confectionery speaks to Yugna Shah, Owner of The Painted Peacock, for its Sweet Talk interview for the March issue.
If you could change anything in the industry what would it be?
Improve awareness about cocoa farming and why sustainable produce is worth every penny spent.
What three traits define you?
Creative, Passionate, Dedicated
What’s the coolest (or most important) trend you see today?
The return to using natural ingredients driven by customers who want a purer sensory experience, be it taste or aesthetics. In addition to using exotic spices, fresh garden herbs, nuts and fresh fruit purees for our flavours, we also use natural colours to create vibrant chocolates.
How do you define success?
Truly enjoying what you do; spreading the joy of artisanal chocolates and driving sales with customers, old and new.
What made you want to work for the industry?
I’ve always been excited about experimenting with art and flavours from a young age. The willingness from customers to break out of mould and try new combinations of flavours has given me the opportunity to transfer this passion to the bespoke chocolate space.
What would you most like to tell your 13-year-old self?
Make the most of being a child! Play, experiment, learn, have fun and don’t get too caught up about the future.
If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?
Mother Teresa. I am inspired by the charitable work she did and hope to continue giving back. We give a percentage of our profits to help the less fortunate in Kenya.
What’s your favourite aspect about working in the industry?
The continuous innovation around techniques and flavours. I am constantly learning from different personalities in the industry.
What was the best piece of advice you ever received?
“Do something you are passionate about and be passionate about doing it.”
“Invest in learning and success will be your return.”
Where do you see yourself in five year’s time?
Expand The Painted Peacock to be the go to place for artisanal chocolates. Hopefully it’s success will enable me to build a creative learning school for the less fortunate.
Find out more here: www.thepaintedpeacock.co
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Media contact
Kiran Grewal
Editor, International Confectionery
Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922
Email: editor@in-confectionery.com
