EMPOWERING a staff member to find a business opportunity could bring the sweet taste of success to those behind Barnetby's JS Supplies.

A chocolate fountain rental business has been launched by the company, which operates in fields as diverse as passive fire protection and meeting room hire.

Chocolate Euphoria is headed up by Laura Harrison, having been given an Apprentice-style task by owners Phil and Liz Asquith after she joined the firm as a receptionist a year ago.

Mrs Asquith said: "Phil, my husband, is always looking for different businesses and different ideas and set Laura a task to trawl through the internet and see what was available. It was a bit of a laugh really. We do have lots of fingers in lots of little pies.

"She found a company advertising for a franchise opportunity and for the amount it cost we thought we could set it up ourselves, and that is what we did."

Chocolate Euphoria was born, and the machines and the expertise are hired for events, be it weddings or other special occasions.

"It was a great opportunity and we thought there was a niche and it is something that has increased in popularity," said Miss Harrison, who has put together marketing material to support the venture.

"It is a great ice-breaker for guests at a party and we offer a service where we can be there as they arrive, set up ready, then clean up and take it away to fit in with the event. It really is no hassle."

The company is one of the first in the country to take on a smaller model – ideal for parties of 20 to 50 people – while they also have another fountain that can cater for 150 people's Belgian chocolate requirements.