Bubble Chocolate, a new all-natural brand that delivers aerated chocolate to North America, has announced that Duane Reade, the largest drug store chain in metropolitan New York City, is selling both its dark and milk chocolate bars in more than 250 locations.

“In nine months, Bubble Chocolate has gained incredible distribution throughout North America, and getting our bars into Duane Reade confirms that American’s are ready for aerated chocolate,” says Paul Pruett, the company’s ceo. “The positive feedback from buyers and consumers is so exciting and we expect that this brand will continue to grow exponentially.”

In addition to Duane Reade and independent retailers across the United States, Bubble Chocolate can be found in a variety of stores, including Meijer, T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, BevMo, HomeGoods, Roundy’s Supermarkets, Akin’s Natural Food Markets, Central Market and Whole Foods Markets in the New England and Northern California regions. Bubble Chocolate also has swiftly expanded into Canada and can be purchased in Winners and HomeSense stores.

According to Mintel, international aerated chocolate sales reached $1 billion last year. With one-third fewer calories than a traditional chocolate bar but with the same volume, it allows chocolate lovers on restricted calorie diets the option of enjoying real chocolate, the company says.

The aerated process, which introduces micro air bubbles into the chocolate, makes the bars lower in calories than a regular chocolate bar; but despite the lower calories, the process does not compromise the overall taste experience. Six squares of Bubble Chocolate contain just 100 calories.

Using the finest European chocolate, Bubble Chocolate is available in 2.82-oz. premium milk and dark chocolate bars and retails for $2.49. The chocolates also come in a 10-bar merchandising display and/or a 60-ct. floor display.

For more information, visit  www.bubblechocolate.com.