FRANCE. French chocolate maison Valrhona has partnered with Extime Duty Free (the joint venture between Lagardère Travel Retail and Groupe ADP) to mark the historic reopening of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame with a special activation in Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Terminal 1.
Running from 9 December to 15 January, the animation features an extraordinary chocolate sculpture and exclusive product launches to celebrate the culture, artistry and heritage of Valrhona and Paris.
The two-metre-long chocolate sculpture of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris at the heart of the activation was crafted by renowned pastry chef Baptiste Moreau, with the guidance of the l’École Valrhona Paris and Executive Chef Thierry Bridron.
The intricate piece honours the cathedral’s grand reopening and highlights Valrhona’s fine chocolate-making legacy, while celebrating this important cultural moment in the French capital.
To celebrate the occasion, Valrhona has introduced a limited-edition praline giftbox and exclusive chocolate bar – featuring a detailed replica of Notre-Dame – exclusively with Extime Duty Free. Designed by Baptiste Moreau, the products are packaged in Paris-themed designs with refined gold accents, offering travellers an elevated gifting experience.
Another standout feature is the Valrhona Gift Atelier, where travellers can customise their purchases with a printed ribbon bearing a personalised message.
In addition, Valrhona is offering travellers the opportunity to enjoy its signature hot chocolate at the pop-up.
“We’re delighted to bring the spirit of the holidays to life in such a meaningful way,” said Valrhona Global Retail & Travel Retail Director Zeyneb Larabi. “Through this collaboration with Extime and Lagardère Travel Retail, travellers can discover our exclusive collections and personalise their gifts, creating memories that transcend the ordinary.
“The partnership captures the elegance of Paris and the magic of the season, and we couldn’t be prouder to share it with our customers. Extime Duty Free Paris, Lagardère Travel Retail and Valrhona share the same commitment to excellence, creativity and delivering unforgettable experiences. This activation is a fabulous example of how we bring art, hospitality and emotion to life, setting new standards for innovation and collaboration in travel retail.” ✈
