Grand Opening of New Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
Set For Friday, November 15

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -September 15, 2013 – Ghirardelli Chocolate Company, America’s oldest operating chocolate manufacturer, is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest soda fountain and chocolate shop on Friday, November 15, joining The Walt Disney Studios’ El Capitan Theatre and Disney Studio Store on Hollywood Boulevard. The shop– the first in Los Angeles — will give moviegoers, visitors and locals a chance to experience Ghirardelli’s world-famous hot fudge sundaes, shakes, floats, and delicious assortment of chocolates and beautifully wrapped gifts. Each guest will also enjoy a complimentary sample of the signature Ghirardelli SQUARES chocolate. The Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop and Disney Studio Store will be located next to the legendary El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood Boulevard), and will be open seven days a week.

“Ghirardelli Chocolate is honored to join Disney on Hollywood Boulevard to bring visitors and moviegoers an unforgettable experience,” said Marty Thompson, President and CEO of the Ghirardelli® Chocolate Company. “We have been bringing quality chocolate to the public for over 160 years, and this iconic location in the heart of Hollywood is the perfect place to continue the tradition.”

To celebrate the opening, Ghirardelli Chocolate and Disney will feature a specially created sundae treat for the opening of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ new animated movie “Frozen” this November. In future months, Ghirardelli Chocolate will create original ice cream sundaes for select film releases, providing El Capitan moviegoers with a unique Ghirardelli experience. The new soda fountain and chocolate shop joins the existing Disney Studio Store which offers an assortment of classic Disney character souvenirs, merchandise from current film releases playing at El Capitan Theatre, highly sought after collectible pins, and a large selection of Blu-Ray and DVD home entertainment.

“The El Capitan Theatre has always been about giving guests the ultimate entertainment experience. And now, with Ghirardelli, anextraordinary experience becomes even more unforgettable,” said Lylle Breier, senior vice president, Worldwide Special Events for Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. “Families and movie lovers from all over can come to the El Capitan, see a great Disney movie, and enjoy a memorable, delicious after-movie treat. We’re thrilled to welcome Ghirardelli Chocolate to Hollywood. Ghirardelli chocolate and a Disney movie at the El Cap: How sweet it is!”