Since 1981, Rocky Mountain Chocolate has built a legacy for providing high-quality chocolate and other confections. The company was named America's Best Chocolate and Candy Store by Newsweek, and as the longtime owner of one of its franchises, Susy Alvarez has played an integral role in its success.

Alvarez opened her first store in Fort Collins, Colo., in 2002 and in 2005, she moved her franchise to the Salt Lake International Airport. She shares her insight on the candy industry, how to thrive in a competitive environment and how Zions Bank helped her small business find success. 

What do you want people to know about your small business?

Rocky Mountain Chocolate has thrived because it uses the highest quality chocolate for its incredible product line. We use American Guittard chocolate, which has created high-quality chocolate since 1868.

Our caramel apples are truly distinctive — we create a dozen flavors for chocolate lovers, ranging from classic almond to famous apple pie. 

What made you decide to open your franchise at the Salt Lake airport? 

Foot traffic is key for the candy industry because the purchase of chocolates is often done on impulse or as a treat. I’m proud that my business was the second Rocky Mountain Chocolate franchise to open in an airport.

Retail space at airports is highly coveted and it’s a competitive process to secure and retain a space. We’ve grown a strong customer base by offering seasonal discounts and special rates for military, firefighters, law enforcement and airport employees.

We’ve also sold our chocolate to many high-profile customers, including a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame musician and an Academy Award-winning actress.

How do you prepare for the Valentine’s Day rush? 

In preparation for the holiday, it’s common for us to create as many as 3,500 chocolate-covered strawberries and 1,800 caramel apples. We start preparing our goods at 4 a.m. because it takes time to produce the fresh, tasty treats we’re famous for.

We wash, dry, dip and decorate each strawberry by hand. It’s a long process, but it’s worth it for our signature Valentine Day’s product: An acrylic heart with eight large strawberries that have been decorated by hand. 

Why did you choose to work with Zions Bank and how has it helped your small business?

Zions Bank helped me obtain a U.S. Small Business Administration loan to build my store and they have supported my entrepreneurial journey for the last 18 years.

My relationship manager has a finger on the pulse of my business and consistently follows up to make sure my needs are met. All my banking needs, including credit card processing, are provided by Zions Bank — I couldn’t do it without them!

Looking for a bank that’s invested in your future? Zions Bank’s team of relationship managers can provide small business success strategies as well as funding options, including SBA loans. Visit a local Zions Bank branch to learn more about how Zions Bank can help your small business succeed.

1. Loans subject to credit approval and SBA approval. Terms and conditions apply. See a banker for details.