A collaboration rooted in community
We’re excited to announce a delicious new addition to the I Love North Shields Tote Bag Challenge — The Chocolate Smiths have come on board as the sponsor of our bold new Red Tote!
Founded in North Shields in 2014 by chocolatier Steffi Smith, The Chocolate Smiths has grown from humble kitchen beginnings into a vibrant, award-winning chocolate maker with production right here in town. What started with handmade bars sold at local markets is now a thriving factory operation on the Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate, where every bar is tempered, moulded, filled and wrapped under one roof.
Their signature Bizarre Bars and other chocolate creations are beloved far beyond the North East — and for good reason. With imaginative flavour combinations, high-quality ingredients and playful design, The Chocolate Smiths have built a loyal following across the UK and beyond.
This collaboration feels like a natural fit: both ILNS and The Chocolate Smiths are rooted in creative independence, local pride, and community celebration. The funky red tote — now available alongside our other limited-edition bags — carries that spirit out into the world, turning everyday errands into moments of bold colour and local love.
Every tote sold helps support I Love North Shields — fueling our magazine, community stories, creative projects and ongoing collaborations with independent businesses like The Chocolate Smiths.
Grab yours today, celebrate local makers, and carry a bit of Shields with you wherever you go!
Join our tote bag challenge and pin yours to our map.
NEW! The Chocolate Smiths Red Tote Bag x I Love North Shields (Limited Edition)
Say hello to our latest I Love North Shields Tote Bag collaboration — the bold new Red Tote, proudly sponsored by The Chocolate Smiths.
Read the full story here: Made in North Shields: Inside The Chocolate Smiths
