Melissa Trimmer has been named Pastry Chef of the Year by the Michigan chapter.

Chef Christophe Rull won the U.S. selection round of the Cacao Barry World Chocolate Masters, held Oct. 7-8 at the Chocolate Academy in Chicago. He’ll face the best pastry chefs from around the world next year in the World Chocolate Masters final.

Academy Magazine’s first issue explores the latest industry trends, delves into tips and tricks, and introduces the latest from Barry Callebaut’s gourmet house of brands.

In partnership with Hershey, the Food Network will launch a primetime, four-episode television series, “Chocolate Meltdown: Hershey’s After Dark,” in time for Halloween.

Award-winning pastry chef Claude Escamilla will introduce his reimagined pastry shop, SWEET SIN by Claude Escamilla, at The LINQ Promenade next month. 

Olam Cocoa has made its premium deZaan cocoa powders available to restaurants, caterers and patisseries for the first time under its new business arm Olam Cocoa for Professionals.

Elias Läderach of Switzerland won the 2018 World Chocolate Masters competition, sponsored by brand Cacao Barry at the Salon du Chocolat in Paris last week. Florent Cheveau, executive pastry chef for the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, placed third.