Two Small Business Join Forces to Bring Gourmet Goodies and Groceries to Downtown Residents

TAMPA, FLORIDA, August 11, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Ashworth Artisan Chocolate will relaunch this Friday, August 14th, inside Duckweed Urban Grocery at 803 N. Tampa Street.

The chocolate shop was a Hyde Park staple for 8 years before moving downtown to Cass Street (where they closed up shop at the end of July).

"We knew Steven's wealth of experience could be a huge asset to Duckweed as we continue to grow. At the same time, Duckweed's location could provide a more visible venue for his amazing chocolate products."

Michelle Deatherage, Owner, Duckweed Urban Grocery

Duckweed and Ashworth's owners became acquainted through Tampa Downtown Partnership and Bicycle Friendly Business meetings, and as customers at each other's neighboring stores. When Duckweed owners heard Steven Ashworth was closing the doors of his chocolate shop, they jumped at the opportunity to turn the situation into a win-win for both businesses.

"We knew Steven's wealth of experience could be a huge asset to Duckweed as we continue to grow. At the same time, Duckweed's location could provide a more visible venue for his amazing chocolate products," says Duckweed's owner, Michelle Deatherage.

Steven was brought on as Duckweed's new Operations Manager at the beginning of the month, and began production of his hand-crafted chocolates in preparation for Friday's relaunch. Artisan chocolate bars, truffles, caramels, turtles, and more will be available at Duckweed Urban Grocery every day to help satisfy the sweet tooth of Downtown's residents and workers.

Last month, Duckweed Urban Grocery passed the two-year mark in their Tampa Street location in the Element building, and recently announced plans for a second location in Channelside, set to open at The Place this Winter. Ashworth Artisan Chocolate will be featured in the second location as well, and Duckweed’s owner hope to collaborate with more local small businesses by featuring “micro-shops” within the Duckweed groceries.