EHL Ingredients finds recipe for success

EHL INGREDIENTS, the North West importer, blender and supplier of seeds, pulses and spices from around the world, has reported a record year for sales.

For the first time, sales have passed £5m – an increase of 20% on last year – and further growth is expected next year.

EHL, based in Stockport, is looking to grow its team, invest in additional storage space and boost product development in the next few months.

This year it has seen a recovery in demand for its organic ingredients, including seeds, dried fruits and pulses, while orders for allergen-free ingredients such as curry powder are also on the up.

Over the summer, BBQ blends, Mexican chillis, summer herbs and spices, seeds and grains experienced a boost in sales within the company’s target audience of food manufacturers and retailers.

Product development for next year includes additional allergen-free spices and seasonings, as well as increasing the range of heat-treated lo-micro herbs and spices.

EHL currently offers around 300 food ingredients and boasts a 200-strong organic range as well as over 50  custom blends.

Sales director, Tasneem Backhouse, says: ‘We are delighted to be ending the year on such a high. The summer was a busy period for us and with major events taking place across the country, we certainly benefited from the increase in demand for summer ingredients for food products.  
 
“We put our success down to several key factors; a strong sales team, quality products, a reliable service and a significant boost in our profile in the food industry press. Plus, demand among consumers for healthier snack alternatives, such as seeds and dried fruits, has also led our customers to develop new, innovative products.

“There are also more organic food companies opening up, which has led to an increase in demand for our organic lines. There was a dip nationally in organic sales during the recession, but this seems to be picking up again now and commercial events such as Organic September really help to boost the sector overall.

“We are are confident about our progress as a business and have consolidated our position in this highly competitive market place. We are going into 2013 on a positive note and we are aiming to increase sales this year by a further 20%.”

Founded 18 years ago EHL employs 25 staff at its head office on Broadstone Industrial Estate.