How it started - the ‘Gin Craze’ When William of Orange became king of England in the late 1600s, he brought with him the idea of ‘genever’; the national spirit of Holland and Belgium, flavoured predominantly with juniper berries. This was the beginning of what is now known as the ‘Gin Craze’. Due to
Chocolate has always been a firm favourite for those craving a sweet treat, but recently within the chocolate market the pendulum has started to shift from the traditional flavours for chocolate such as caramel, strawberry, hazelnut and orange. The booming craft chocolate trend Craft chocolates are becoming more prevalent, especially within the Australasia market,
In the same year, a BRC AA Grade accreditation was obtained and subsequently retained, underlining our commitment to producing high quality, natural products to a consistently high standard.
A focus on manufacturing and service excellence and the implementation of our World Class Manufacturing program have assisted in ensuring that Lionel Hitchen continues to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. Over the next few years an extended board of directors is assembled to ensure continued growth and success.
The business demonstrates its commitment to the highest possible food industry standards when BRC Accreditation Grade A is attained on our first attempt in 2011. We have achieved the highest grade attainable since then.
Lionel Hitchen, aged 94, attended his last ever senior management meeting. His spirit and business principles will forever live on within the business.
Shanghai Chinyou Industry Co., Ltd (formerly Shanghai Threewin Trading Co., Ltd) founded by Fan Wang, is appointed as our Chinese Distributor.
Lionel Hitchen USA Limited in Sarasota, Florida is established to support expansion in the USA.
CPL AROMAS South Africa (Pty) Ltd based in Johannesburg is appointed Distributor for South Africa. The company ownership & name changes in 2014 to Company of Aromas Pty Ltd. In 2016, the business is acquired by Carst & Walker (South Africa) who remain our Distributor for South Africa.
Citi Impex Company Ltd, founded by Predeep Cherian, is appointed Distributor for Russia and is based in Moscow.
