Lionel attends his last senior management meeting
Lionel Hitchen, aged 94, attended his last ever senior management meeting. His spirit and business principles will forever live on within the business.
Business expands to China
Shanghai Chinyou Industry Co., Ltd (formerly Shanghai Threewin Trading Co., Ltd) founded by Fan Wang, is appointed as our Chinese Distributor.
Lionel Hitchen USA Ltd incorporated 5th January 2007
Lionel Hitchen USA Limited in Sarasota, Florida is established to support expansion in the USA.
Business expands to South Africa
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.
Business expands to Russia
Citi Impex Company Ltd, founded by Predeep Cherian, is appointed Distributor for Russia and is based in Moscow.
New development labs open at Virginia Works site
In 2005, Virginia Works became home to our team of experienced flavourists.
Lionel Hitchen retires
Lionel, aged 87, decides to step down from the day to day business. He continues to attend senior management meetings.
Business expands to Germany and Austria
Well situated in Brechen, near Frankfurt, F.E.P.A. GmbH and its founder, Frank Gutzeit, is appointed Distributor for Germany and Austria.
Second site acquired at Virginia Works, Andover
A second site is acquired in Andover, only 8 miles from Barton Stacey. This site provides warehousing as well as being home to central services such as Customer Services, Sales and Logistics.
Business expands to South Korea
KNS Trading Co. Ltd, managed by Mr S.Y. Lee is appointed as Distributor for South Korea. Mr Lee was later succeeded by his son, Ben Lee.