TCHO is an American chocolate company based in Berkeley, California, specializing in ethically sourced, craft chocolate products. Founded in 2005 by Timothy Childs, a former NASA technologist, and later joined by chocolate industry veteran Karl Bittong, TCHO is known for its innovative approach to chocolate making, with an emphasis on transparency, direct trade relationships, and flavor development.
The company sources its cacao directly from farmers and cooperatives in countries such as Peru, Ghana, Ecuador, and Madagascar, working closely with producers to improve fermentation, drying, and overall quality through its TCHO Source program. This initiative reflects TCHO's commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability, and farmer empowerment.
TCHO produces a variety of chocolate bars, baking products, and confections, often highlighting single-origin cacao and unique flavor profiles. Its products are recognized for their modern, minimalist packaging and focus on the nuanced tasting experience of chocolate, similar to the approach taken in coffee or wine.
Since its founding, TCHO has become a respected name in the American craft chocolate movement, distributing its products in specialty stores, premium grocery retailers, and online platforms both domestically and internationally.
