A new visitor attraction based on the history of confectionary will open on 31 March 2012 in York, UK.

Chocolate - York's Sweet Story will be operated by Continuum and will offer visitors the opportunity to learn about how the confectionery industry became one of the biggest employers in York.

The 6,400sq ft attraction will occupy three floors in the former Alison Homes Déco building owned by developer Oakgate Group.

Design company MET Studio has created the attraction's interactive journey, which will take visitors from the rainforests of Central America to discover how confectionery found a home in York.

An expert confectioneer will guide visitors from the Aztecs and Mayans to the present day confectionery industry that continues to thrive in York.

Memories from from the families that founded the confectionery companies -Rowntree's, Terry's and Craven's - will also be shared for the first time using interpretative techniques and rare objects from the past to bring each story to life.

Michael Constantine, who has been appointed general manager of CHOCOLATE - York's Sweet Story, said: "Our opening date will be just in time for Easter which wouldn't be the same without Chocolate.

"Building work is full steam ahead, the team is growing and we're all really looking forward to launch day."