FRANCE. Chocolate maison Valrhona has partnered with Lagardère Travel Retail to unveil an exclusive animation at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport.
The activation, running until 24 February in Terminal 1, spotlights Lyon’s legacy as the World Capital of Gastronomy.
Its centrepiece is a replica of the Bocuse d’Or trophy, a tribute to the world-renowned biennial culinary competition hosted in Lyon. French chocolaterie Valrhona serves as an official partner for the event.
The activation was unveiled on 23 January, strategically coinciding with Sirha Lyon 2025 – the world reference event for food service and hospitality. Attendees from around the globe travel to and from Lyon Airport for this culinary gathering.
The exhibition showcased Valrhona’s Lyon-themed sleeves, enhancing its 50 chocolate squares giftbox. The designs pay tribute to Lyon’s gastronomic heritage.
At the airport pop-up, passengers can tailor giftboxes with a ribbon personalisation service.
Valrhona Global Retail & Travel Retail Director Zeyneb Larabi said: “We’re incredibly proud of our roots in Tain l’Hermitage, just a short distance from Lyon, a city that embodies the essence of gastronomy.
“Our partnerships with chefs and our role in major culinary events such as the Bocuse d’Or allow us to play an active role in shaping the future of fine dining.
“Through this activation, we celebrate the close ties between our chocolate and the culinary excellence of Lyon. This activation is more than a celebration of Lyon’s food culture; it’s a reflection of Valrhona’s ongoing commitment to the world of gastronomy and the culinary community that drives it forward.” ✈
