Following a corporate career spanning 20 years starting with Henkel, Bunzl and Amersham International, and then Bush Boake Allen, Zanos Ltd was formed by Julian Sarkar in 2000 to bring together his industry knowledge, contact networks and global experience to the UK and EU flavour & fragrance and speciality chemicals markets.

With the UK’s departure from the EU single market, Zanos Ltd proactively opened an office in the Netherlands, Zanos Europe B.V. This entity handles transactions within the EU (and other non-UK markets), bypassing any UK customs charges.

As of Autumn 2020, Stort Chemicals Limited completed their acquisition of Zanos Ltd.  Stort are one of the UK’s most successful family-owned speciality chemical distribution companies.  Combining our strengths, Stort and Zanos have boosted our respective portfolios of aroma chemicals, speciality chemicals and natural ingredients.  Together, we are positioned to extend our expertise post-Brexit in the UK and beyond.

The strength and breadth of experience means that Zanos can readily find sources of many products not currently in our existing product range. We carry over 100 aroma chemicals in stock and rely on exclusive arrangements with natural suppliers to offer high-quality ingredients.

A dedicated and friendly team can react quickly to urgent requirements and advance new enquiries promptly. Our adaptable approach allows us to meet the needs of customers especially during times of market instability.

Meet the Team

Kendrick Gilkes

Executive Chairman

Richard Gilkes

Managing Director

Emma Marchant

Director, Flavours & Fragrance

Marion Hall

Sales and Marketing Administrator

Jon Barber

Data Manager

Jayne Brow

Administration Manager

Affiliations

CBA (Chemical Business Association UK)

A member since 2007, Zanos joined their Responsible Care programme in 2008, a global initiative by the chemical industry to continually improve in health, safety and environmental performance. Zanos personnel attend regular workshops on REACH, new legislation and issues regarding Brexit.

BSP (British Society of Perfumers)

Several members of the Zanos & Stort teams are associate members of the BSP which supports the education and development of perfumers in the UK. Zanos’ global suppliers have often presented new products at the annual BSP One Day Symposium, a gathering of corporate perfumers and fragrance manufacturers. Staff also attend fine fragrance award presentations and industry trend workshops.

IFEAT (International Federation of Essential Oil and Aroma Trades)

Our membership to IFEAT takes advantage of the association’s industry-exclusive services, good practice and discussion forums. Zanos regularly attends the annual IFEAT international conference attended by a large number of key industry players.

BEOA (British Essential Oils Association)

Zanos has been member of the BEOA since 2015, which keeps us informed of new legislation, offers seminars and field trips for the essential oils, aroma chemicals, absolutes & oleoresins industry. Zanos plays an active role in attending meetings and other events.