Norwich: Royal Arcade bids farewell to Saffire Chocolates

Angela Ruthven started Saffire Chocolates 18 years ago after she retired as headteacher of a school for children with special educational needs.

She opened her dream shop in Norwich's Royal Arcade in 2020 after selling her handmade chocolates at a unit at Taverham Garden Centre.

Artisan Chocolates by Saffire in the Royal Arcade, Norwich. Pictured is owner Angela Ruthven - Picture: Neil Didsbury (Image: Newsquest)

Although the Norwich shop is closing after three years - now Angela is fully retiring - Saffire will remain in operation online with Angela's granddaughter Kathrin at the helm.

There has already been a number of enquiries into Saffire's unit in the Grade II*-listed Royal Arcade, which was built in 1899 and designed by renowned Norwich architect George Skipper.

Simon Ashdown, director of LPC1 - the company managing the Royal Arcade on behalf of the owners - said: "Of course, we are sad to see Angela and her team at Saffire leaving the Royal Arcade.

Saffire chocolates (Image: Archant 2020)

"It’s been an absolute pleasure to have had them as a tenant. They embodied the spirit of artisan independence which is what the Royal Arcade is known for and we wish her and Kathrin the best of luck with their online venture.

"We are glad to have played a role in their success story."

A view of the Royal Arcade from Marmalades (Image: Archant Norfolk)

Recent new additions to the Royal Arcade include Basil and Pip, Yalm, Izola, Juni and Co and Gyre and Gimble.

The historic shopping thoroughfare is also home to long-established arcade brands such as Lady B Loves, Marmalades and Macarons and More.

Mr Ashdown continued: "We have already received interest from a number of potential new tenants so anticipate that it won’t be long before we can announce a new store opening that will complement the others we have in the Royal Arcade."