A Thanksgiving fire destroyed a 1-800-FLOWERS.COM chocolate storage warehouse in Maple Heights, Ohio. Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire that housed Fannie May Fine Chocolates and Harry London Chocolates. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in the fire, but the facility was so severely damaged that it will likely be inoperable for the holiday season. As much of the products stored in the building were damaged or lost in the fire, 1-800-FLOWERS has had to temporarily halt orders for Fannie May and Harry London Chocolates. In addition, the company expects to only have a limited supply of its chocolate products available throughout holiday season.
1-800-Flowers, one of the largest online florists and gift retailer, has begun to implement contingency plans to assist in the production of both Fannie May and Harry London Chocolates, which includes shifting warehouse and distribution operations to other company facilities. They are also considering third-party logistics companies to help distribute products during the holiday season.
We will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as they become available.