NEW YORK (Reuters). Dripping chocolate covered heart-shaped homemade marshmallows in Li-Lac Chocolates’ New York City 9000-square-foot production facility. This was as the chocolate factory increased its production for Valentine’s Day.

On Friday, three days before Valentine Day, workers were busy decorating hearts of chocolate with colorful sprinkles, chocolate coating cherries and making toffee filling.

They raced to put chocolates into gold and red boxes, which were available online as well as at one of six locations.

Anwar Khoder was the factory’s master chocolatier, and also the production manager.

Anthony Cirone (President and Co-Owner of Li-Lac) said Valentine’s Day was the second-most important holiday for business. Valentine’s Day has the highest number of chocolate sales outside of Christmas.

Despite some challenges in stocking raw materials, the chocolate company is positive about the holiday’s sales prospects.

Cirone said that they have had similar problems with price rises and supply chain shortages. He added that the company was trying to find a solution.

The COVID-19 epidemic was the time when this company started its online operations. But, they said that store sales have been growing as people return to Manhattan, both tourists and workers.

Cirone stated that chocolate is a popular treat and that people love it.

Li-Lac Chocolates was founded in 1923. It will be celebrating its 100th year anniversary next year. All products are handmade using original 1920s recipes.

They make what they call “old school” chocolate.

According to the National Retail Federation, Valentine’s Day spending will reach $23.9 Billion Monday. This is up from $21.8 Billion in 2021.

According to the survey, candy (including chocolate) is still most in demand. Next are greeting cards and flowers.