A Letter from the Chair

Jan 19, 2024

With a new year well underway, we wanted to stop and reflect on everything we achieved as a team during 2023, and the events that will shape the business moving forward.

In January 2023, Tom and I sat down and crafted a business plan for the year, beginning with tackling the longstanding beast in our business, which has been with us since our acquisition of H Foster in 2006. It's important to clarify that this "beast" is not a living entity but rather our accountancy software. In our wisdom, we also decided to introduce a new CRM in 2019. Unfortunately, the chosen system was not fit for purpose and, despite a considerable amount of time to the call centre, it has never worked effectively.

It was then that we made the decision to change software on both elements and, after a considerable amount of investigation, we identified a new system. However, the next problem was carrying the data over. Rolling the data over, warts and all, from the old to the new was not deemed to be a good idea, so we decided to input it all manually. No small task! Kirsty and Penny started first thing Saturday 1st July and worked flat out for 14 days to complete the task. All the while, H Foster continued to deliver an uninterrupted service.

The second major step we have achieved for the company is having a CSR report assembled. The report on our website lays out what we are about as an operation; our values and our vision as to how we see ourselves as an operation in the modern world. The CSR report led to us applying for an EcoVadis sustainability rating. In November, we received our certification and found out we had achieved GOLD, putting H Foster in the top 5% of companies assessed by EcoVadis. This was very timely as it arrived just before SCS Formulate, the UK’s largest event of its kind, focusing on raw materials, ingredients and formulation services used in creating personal care and cosmetic products.

The SCS Formulate show was great, we were incredibly pleased with the booth. It was an important show for us as we were launching an exciting new range of botanical Cellular Extracts from Australia’s leading phyto-tech company, NATIVE EXTRACTS, that has evolved the botanical extract industry and natural ingredient category over the last decade. Lisa Carroll, Innovator & CEO of NATIVE EXTRACTS and I had agreed that H Foster would be their distributor and route to market in the UK. NATIVE EXTRACTS and H Foster 1875 share a very similar ethos; we are both family businesses, committed to eco-conscious manufacturing practices and quality processes with an emphasis on service delivery. We are very excited to work with Lisa’s company and bring their expertise and ground-breaking natural ingredient innovations to the UK market. This will have a considerable impact on brands creating new points of difference in the UK market, both in the short term and also in the longer term, with the projects NATIVE EXTRACTS are working on.

This partnership represents the introduction to the UK market of over 400 cosmetic ingredients that harness the natural molecules from a botanical’s cells, including an unprecedented library of Australian Native botanical powerhouses, along with presenting a “new look” at the natural molecules their flagship Cellular Extraction protocols can offer the UK market on the traditional and popular botanical extracts. We will be showing UK brands how they can refresh existing extracts with more clean and conscious innovations that support their pursuit in True to Nature cosmetic ingredients that considers eco-conscious manufacturing practises, inclusivity with First Nation growers in the supply chain, and transparency for brands to champion new stories for the future.

As Tom has said to me, 2023 was a reset year for the company and we both look forward very much to 2024. Thank you for being on this exciting journey with us.

Simon Eggar,

Chairman & Managing Director

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H Foster Awarded EcoVadis Gold Status

05 Feb, 2024

Back in 2023, H Foster was awarded a Gold Medal by EcoVadis, the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, with a global network of more than 125,000 rated companies. Here’s what it means for us.

Benefits of Oleic Acids

27 Nov, 2023

Selecting chemical components for various applications requires insight into their benefits and compatibility with your products. Oleic acid , offered by H Foster, a leading UK supplier in the chemical supply industry, stands out for its remarkable properties. Let's delve into the specific benefits that make oleic acid an indispensable ingredient in a multitude of sectors. A Tradition in Cosmetics Oleic acid has been used for centuries in traditional cosmetic practices . Its applications range from skin moisturising to the treatment of burns, psoriasis, and eczema, showcasing its versatility and effectiveness in skin health and repair. Moisturising and Skin Penetration Oleic acid excels in skin care. It replenishes moisture and soothes irritated skin, making it a prime ingredient in anti-ageing serums, heavy moisturisers, and replenishing creams. Its ability to penetrate the skin effectively allows it to transport and improve the efficacy of other skincare ingredients. Benefits for Dry Skin For those with dry skin, oleic acid offers significant benefits. Its presence in various oils makes it a staple in facial oils, where its moisturising properties can be fully utilised. This is due to its quick absorption into the skin, helping to retain moisture and relieve dryness. Nutritional Health Benefits Consuming oleic acid offers significant nutritional benefits that support heart health and contribute to a healthy diet. Its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to fight free radical damage are key reasons why oleic acid is beneficial in our diets. Oleic acid has many uses in the food industry. It's commonly used to create synthetic butters and cheeses, as well as to flavour a variety of products, including baked goods, sweets, ice cream, and lemonade. This wide range of applications showcases oleic acid's versatility and its role in enhancing the taste and quality of foods. For more information on the applications of oleic acid in food and drink, visit: Food & Drink Applications . A Champion among Cleaning Agents Oleic acid is often used in household cleaning products for its surfactant properties. Surfactants help break down oils and grease, making it easier to clean surfaces. Oleic acid is particularly effective in removing stubborn stains and dirt, it helps to lift and disperse the grime, making it easier to wipe or rinse away. Sustainability and Environment H Foster recognises the importance of sustainability in today’s market. Oleic acid, a standout in our product line, is not just versatile but also kind to our planet. According to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) , oleic acid is readily biodegradable, meaning it breaks down naturally without harming the environment. This makes it a sustainable option for industries aiming to decrease their environmental impact. By choosing oleic acid, you’re selecting a path that prioritises ecological responsibility alongside top-notch performance. By understanding these benefits, we at H Foster ensure that our oleic acid products meet the high standards required for such versatile applications, from personal care to nutrition and beyond. Selecting H Foster as your oleic acid supplier means choosing a partner committed to your success. With over a century of expertise, we don't just deliver chemicals; we deliver confidence. Our knowledgeable team is on hand to provide insights and support, ensuring that you benefit fully from the remarkable properties of oleic acid. Are You Ready to Enhance Your Products with Oleic Acid? Discover the transformative power of oleic acid with H Foster. Whether you're formulating a new skincare line, seeking healthier food ingredients, or finding sustainable industrial solutions, our premium quality oleic acid is your ideal choice. Contact us for a personalised consultation and let's craft your success story together: