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Vanilla Tourism – by Colin Ringleib (Vice President, Ultra International Inc)
I have long had the opportunity to travel the world visiting growing areas and production facilities for flavoring and fragrance materials. The chance to see these remote locations and meet the people who live and work there has always felt like a wonderful privilege. Since many raw materials are long distances from normal tourism stops, the local hotels and transport were spartan and you needed to be quite adventurous. But today, as more people are choosing to travel, they are looking for new experiences and, since essential oils have expanded their reach to consumers around the world, they are interested in seeing where these natural ingredients are grown and processed. This has created an opportunity for these facilities to earn extra income between the crop seasons and expand awareness among consumers.
During the last few years, I have noticed that vanilla growers in several locations have expanded connections with local tour operators and they are now offered as excursions from resort hotels or cruise ships. While I often visited vanilla plantations as a member of the flavor industry, it has been different to see similar locations as a tourist and see how tourists react to the opportunity to see a working farm and talk to the owners. I will highlight a few of the vanilla related locations I have visited as examples, but it certainly being done by other essential oil producers and probably significantly expanded.
TAHA’A (FRENCH POLYNESIA)
While the Tahitian islands (French Polynesia) are well known for their unique vanilla species to those in the flavour industry, average consumers do not really understand the flavour difference in the Vanilla x tahitensis variety. On a cruise, I had the chance to visit a small producer on the island of Taha’a via a shore excursion organised by Holland America. We took a small boat from Raiatea and visited a very small vanilla field and the owners explained how they pollinated the flowers and when the green beans were ripe, how they cured them to produce finished vanilla beans. They had a little shop selling a small variety of vanilla-related items and other souvenirs. Our small group of about 20 walked near the small open-air growing area of several hundred vanilla plants. They highlighted that there were several other small local growers from whom they purchased the green beans, so they had a larger volume to process. They said that their production was about 10-20 tons. Clearly the small collection of plants where they described the process were probably only for show, but nearby we passed several modern fields with netting and security fencing to prevent unauthorised access to the plants.
REUNION
Reunion Island was once a major source of vanilla beans, in fact, the common term Bourbon vanilla relates to Reunion which used to be known as Bourbon Island. While the island has a vibrant agricultural sector, it has rapidly expanded as a tourist location due to its weather, biodiversity, scenery, and cultural diversity. As a French overseas territory, it is a popular destination for French tourists.
During a recent cruise stop in Reunion, I took an excursion to visit a local vanilla producer. I was impressed with their facilities designed to welcome visitors to their small plantation. They had a nice visitor centre with a small store where visitors could buy vanilla and other tourist items. They had a nice room with posters showing the process of growing and curing vanilla beans. They offered vanilla-flavoured coffee to sample when we arrived. They could receive two buses at once but they divided the group into smaller groups of about 15 to tour their vanilla plantings and they explained the process in detail and answered questions. They had two nice fields fenced and covered with netting to provide the necessary shading. There was also a field shaded with small trees allowing the vines to be supported, this would have been the traditional process. After touring the vanilla plants, they sold a lot of vanilla extract, beans, and other souvenirs.
NEW CALEDONIA
Earlier this year, I visited Lifou, New Caledonia on a cruise ship and again my excursion talked about local vanilla cultivation. My tour involved a hike through their native forest where they explained how the local inhabitants maintain a strong connection to their environment. Vanilla cultivation is an opportunity for them as it does not involve clearing the forests. Small farms can be created yielding a high-value crop and they are also linking them with tourism to enhance the overall value of the crop. New Caledonia is a French colony with significant political autonomy, but the local Kanak indigenous people determine how they use the land. An excursion exploring Kanak culture and connections to local vanilla production allowed us another chance to explore vanilla tourism.
THE FUTURE
It would be useful to look closer at the economics of vanilla producers who are able to add tourism to their business model. It will vary based on the location, but clearly regions with strong tourism can tap into this trend. In a similar way to how wineries have capitalised on tourist visits to wineries, aroma industry producers have the opportunity to selectively expand their capability to support tourism. Adding tours, restaurants, demonstrations, shopping, etc. can expand the business and often support seasonal or year-round traffic. Consumer awareness of aroma-related materials has expanded over the last decade and with an expanded interest in unique experiences, consumers will be attracted to a well-designed tourism activity.
Perfumery: The technical matrix
Initially, perfumes were solely instruments of seduction. They were also a status symbol of the wealthy, and a unique offering to the Gods. It took over a century for perfumes to transform into everyday essentials. Today, they serve as a medium of expression, self-care, and evoke feelings. The ever-evolving landscape of the fragrance industry and changing consumer mindset, has shifted the focus towards innovation. The industry has had to adapt and welcome an unprecedented influx of technology. In 2023, Osmo developed a first-of-its-kind odour map. This could predict what molecules smelled like based on their structure. The technology is now being used along with Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create a new generation of sustainable and safer aroma molecules for the flavour and fragrance industry. Technology is also being utilised for a deeper understanding of emotional mechanisms in humans. Companies have created programs to capture and predict the consumer’s emotional response to fragrances. This will enable brands to determine the emotions generated by combinations of colours and scents. Decades of academic research in brain imagery and AI is behind this technology. AI in perfumery is unlocking the next level of innovation in the fragrance industry.
THE STORY THUS FAR
The first AI perfume was launched in 2019. The program was named Philyria and drew scents from an extensive database of over a million formulas. It processed aromas and information about their popularity among demographics and age groups. After analysing all the data, Philyria was able to predict fragrances that would succeed in particular markets. As an experiment it was asked to create a fragrance for millennials in Brazil. The scent was launched with the name ‘Eggeo ON.’ Another AI innovation sprung up in Netherlands in 2020. Based on surveys filled out by customers indicating their personality and lifestyle choices, AI crafted scents. Customers provided further feedback on the resulting products and AI fine-tuned products for future clients. The exercise not only exhibited technical superiority, it also engaged customers, providing them a memorable experience of co-creating a fragrance. AI perfumes have generated mixed responses. While, there are those who say machines cannot feel, others are of the opinion that machines can learn to evoke feelings. All AI applications learn and adapt from human-style the art of perfumery. Experts feel, just like a student learns from a master about ingredients and combinations, that a machine learns from human behaviour. Any program is not perfect at the beginning, but the more it is used, the more it learns, adapts, and improves. Although, in the art of perfume making, one process need not replace the other. The partnership between AI and perfumers displays a warm, emotional, and human approach to perfume making, as opposed to a cold and rational one. While AI can process data much faster and build the skeleton of a fragrance, the creative brains behind the final product are those of the perfumers. AI gives a perfumer freedom from mundane tasks and allows the creative process to develop for longer. This human/machine partnership is led by the perfumer who has the emotions, the feelings, and the intuition to craft a memorable scent.
THE FUTURE
While the digital world has been able to celebrate and incorporate moving images as well as words and sounds, it is yet unable to unlock the technology that can produce the same sensory experience for smell. Scent technology is at a very early stage, but is making headway via the metaverse. For a truly immersive experience, brands are looking to reimagine sensory experiences in virtual spaces. Gucci was the first to launch a virtual perfume in 2022. The resulting product was devoid of any scent. Instead it included a range of experiences, games, challenges, and a digital backpack for users. However not all digital fragrances are odourless. Another approach saw the production of a device called “scent speaker”, which was enabled with scent capsules. The device was paired with an app and, depending on the video being played, scents were emitted, delivering a visual and sensory experience for the customer. Germany produced one of the most viable solutions to digital perfumes. A lab recorded the molecular wavelengths of a perfume and used nearinfrared spectroscopy to craft a digital reflection of it. The resulting digital artwork was backed by an Non-Fungible Token (NFT) – a digital asset that represents ownership or proof of authenticity of a unique item or piece of content. Feelings have always been connected with fragrances. Scents have been used as a way of expression. With the “new normal” blurring the lines between the physical and digital world, the fragrance industry is working towards catching onto this trend. Certain brands are linking NFTs with physical purchases. Tech giants are working towards building algorithms that can predict what molecules will smell like. Others are creating new smells digitally. There are machines predicting consumer behaviour and formulating fragrance solutions for the masses. Innovation and technology have increasingly become important drivers in the perfumery sector. These creations are inspiring emotions, and promoting a sustainable, healthier planet.
https://beautymatter.com/articles/scent-technology-future-of-fragrance#:~:text=Osmo%20is%20using%20similar%20technology
https://headchannel.co.uk/blog/what-is-perfume-ai-and-how-technology-can-create-fragrance-a-human-will-love/
https://www.perfumerflavorist.com/news/fragrance/news/22806965/6-digital-technology-innovation-debuts-in-fragrance-in-2023
https://beautymatter.com/articles/scent-technology-future-of-fragrance
The Consumer Impact
The health and economic crisis across the globe has changed the landscape of the fragrance industry. The consumer mindset has evolved regarding the role fragrance plays in daily living. No longer a superficial tool of expression, fragrances are soothing partners rather than detrimental to the pocket.
REIMAGINING SCENT PROFILES
The desire for freshness is strong among customers in personal care products. This behaviour can be fulfilled by using scent profiles from the food and beverage industry to evoke those same feelings.
STOKING NOSTALGIA
A relaunch of discontinued products as limited editions can also prove to be a game changer. Customers associate fragrances with stories and memories and with a growing need for scents promoting a feelgood vibe, old fragrances can provide the ideal solution. However, this would require further market research to narrow down favourites based on region.
EMOTIONAL WELLBEING
The changing market dynamic has also helped position fragrance as a sensory escape. The demand is for products that promote emotional wellbeing. Scents are often seen as self-care tools to enhance relaxation. To tap into this development, brands can introduce delicately scented products that cater to precise emotional needs. The idea is to provide a range of products to meet the desire for an indulgent and luxurious at-home self-care routine with therapeutic benefits. For instance, face oils enhanced with scent notes of essential oils such as lavender, orange, lemongrass, and green herbs have become increasingly popular. The desire for long-lasting fragrance is high for this customer segment. Research shows that a high concentration and slower dispersal of perfume oil deliver long-lasting results when compared with more traditional fragrances. Safety also plays a crucial role in customer selection. Customers are ever-more conscious of the ingredients in their purchases. Proof of safety is a must because customers need assurance before they purchase the products that they will not lead to any skin related issues. This demand for safety assurance has also resulted in a fondness for softer notes. The use of natural ingredients is also high on a customer’s checklist before they select products from the aisles.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY
Climate change has severely impacted the luxury goods industry, and in particular high-end perfumery. Unpredictable weather patterns have impacted raw material availability. Production slows down and costs rise dramatically because crops are either destroyed or become unsuitable for essential oil distillation. This also results in a price war with the big fragrance houses outbidding others to pile up their stocks. While logistical challenges hamper supply dynamics, climate change has highlighted the industry’s impact on the environment. Increasingly, customers wish to be responsible and tend to purchase products which are produced sustainably. They are also enticed by synthetic alternatives that offer the same aroma but without the need to extract unsustainable raw materials. This emphasises the importance for brands to adhere to eco-friendly guidelines and go beyond just basic packaging. The need for transparent communication is a must. Brands need to assure their customers that:
• The ingredients used are ethically sourced
• Sourcing locally is a way to promote sustainable practices
• Investing in innovative techniques encourages sustainability
Fragrances offer a diverse spectrum. Their unique and extensive profile range presents brands with distinctive market opportunities. Consumer engagement can increase greatly by tapping into recent behavioural trends. In the current challenging economic environment, customers need a slight push to invest in scented personal care products. The proposition needs to be compelling and entice the consumer with self-care rituals and personalised stories. The name of the game is perception, presenting brands with strategic opportunities to create and satisfy the needs of customers.
https://www.mintel.com/insights/beauty-and-personal-care/make-sense-of-scents-fragrance-industry-trends-in-2024-and-beyond/ https://store.mintel.com/report/uk-fragrance-trends-in-market-report
https://www.mintel.com/insights/beauty-and-personal-care/tapping-into-three-distinct-fragrance-consumer-profiles-for-beauty-and-personal-care-brands/
https://www.luxurytribune.com/en/climate-change-impacts-the-high-end-perfume-industry
https://www.beautyindependent.com/trends-rule-fragrance-2024-few-definitely-wont/
It Smells Like Rain – by Dr Hanns Froehlich PhD
Everyone knows it, the “smell of rain”, when the first raindrops fall on the ground after a long dry spell. But how does this remarkable smell come about?
As soon as the first raindrops fall on the ground, you can already smell it in your nose – the earthy, fresh, and slightly damp “scent of rain”.
Everyone knows this “rain scent” and most people find it pleasant. But what do you actually smell?
Raindrops consist of water, i.e. H2O, and this is known to be odourless. Apparently, many decades ago, people were already asking themselves exactly this question. In 1964, the two Australian scientists, I.J. Bear and R.G. Thomas, published a paper in “Nature” and created the name “petrichor”. This name is derived from the two Greek words “petros” (engl.: stone) and “ichor” (engl.: liquid in the veins of the Greek gods).1
In this study, the two researchers were able to identify an essential component of the smell of rain. They found that plants produce and secrete a yellowish oil during dry phases and secrete it during dry periods. This essential oil is absorbed by soils and rocks (hence the name component “petros”), including pavements, and also from sidewalks and roads.
Recent studies have shown that another substance is responsible for the odour. It is an alcohol called “geosmin”, which is produced by bacteria in the soil.2
These microorganisms reduce their metabolism to the bare minimum when it is hot and dry. As soon as the bacteria come into contact with water, they become active again and release – among other things – the volatile and strong-smelling “geosmin”. It happens also, that dew on a cool spring morning is enough to activate the bacteria. Together with the essential oil of the plants and dust on stones, this creates the well-known earthy and fresh aroma of the “petrichor”.
In 2015, researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) used high-speed cameras to discover another important effect that explains the intense odour. When the raindrops hit the dusty ground, small air bubbles form in which the air bubbles are formed in which the with and tiny odour particles are trapped inside. However, these bubbles burst quickly and even a slight breeze or air turbulence is enough to spread the aroma in the air. Incidentally, the same effect also causes the intense odour when opening bottles of sparkling wine or soft drinks, as the rising carbon dioxide bursts and spreads the scent of the drinks.3
The intensity of the petrichor depends on the porosity and moisture of the soil. If the soil has many cavities and is very dry, this is conducive to a rain aroma. The best prerequisite is light rain that falls on a fine-pored and dry soil, from which numerous particles can be released. This is why you can usually smell the rain after long dry periods of drought or in summer during thunderstorms when the heat has previously dried the soil out considerably. In addition to clay soils, forest soils are good sources of an intense scent, as these types of soil contain sufficient cavities from which the air bubbles can rise. However, if it rains very heavily or for long periods, then the soil is quickly soaked and a layer of water forms over the soil, through which no more air bubbles can rise. Hence the scent of rain dries up or does not appear at all. Occasionally you can smell the petrichor some time before the rain falls and even when the rain does not fall. If, for example a line of thunderstorms is approaching in summer, then you can often feel the cold outflow from the line of thunderstorms, which carries the smell of rain and sometimes even blows the odour to regions that don’t get any rain at all.
You can literally smell the rain from afar!
Finally, a little curiosity: petrichor can even be used as a fragrance in candles, as bath bubbles, or as an additive in humidifiers. Even eau de parfums imitate this scent.
Dr Hanns Froehlich PhD has worked in business development and sales in the flavour and fragrance industry for over 33 years. During the past 10 years, his focus has been on essential oils. His doctoral thesis was entitled “Interface Management Between R&D and Marketing in the Fragrance Industry”. Dr Froehlich lives in Germany and has four children. His hobbies include music, history, meteorology, and sport.
1: I.J. Bear, R.G. Thomas: Nature of Argillaceous Odour. In: Nature. Band 201, März 1964, S. 993– 995, doi:10.1038/201993a0 (englisch): “The diverse nature of the host materials has led us to propose the name ‘petrichor’ for this apparently unique odour which can be regarded as an ‘ichor’ or ‘tenuous essence’ derived from rock or stone […] it does not imply that petrichor is necessarily a fixed chemical entity but rather it denotes an integral odour, variable within a certain easily recognizable osmic latitude.”
2: Becher, P.G. et al.: Developmentally regulated volatiles geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol attract a soil arthropod to Streptomyces bacteria promoting spore dispersal. In: NATURE MICROBIOLOGY | VOL 5 | JUNE 2020 | 821–829 | www.nature.com/naturemicrobiology
3: https://news.mit.edu/2015/rainfall-can-release-aerosols-0114
Unlocking the Refreshing Benefits of Peppermint Oil
Peppermint is native to Europe and the Middle East but is now cultivated worldwide, including regions with temperate climates. It thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soil and prefers partial shade. Today, major peppermint-producing countries include the United States, India, and China.
Peppermint oil isn’t just a delightful scent or a flavouring agent; it’s a powerhouse of wellness benefits waiting to be discovered. Derived from the peppermint plant, Mentha piperita, this essential oil has been cherished for centuries for its versatile uses and refreshing properties. From aiding digestion to boosting energy, let’s explore the myriad benefits of peppermint oil that make it a must-have in every household.
SOOTHES DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS
One of the most well-known benefits of peppermint oil lies in its ability to alleviate digestive discomfort. Whether it’s bloating, gas, or indigestion, a few drops of peppermint oil diluted in water or tea can provide quick relief. Its natural properties help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting smoother digestion and reducing discomfort.
ENERGISES AND INVIGORATES
Peppermint oil’s refreshing aroma has an invigorating effect on the senses, helping to enhance alertness and mental clarity. Simply inhaling the scent of peppermint oil or applying it to pulse points can provide a natural energy boost, making it an ideal pick-me-up during long workdays or study sessions.
RELIEVES HEADACHES AND MIGRAINE
Thanks to its analgesic and cooling properties, peppermint oil can help to provide relief from tension headaches and migraines when applied topically to the temples or forehead. The cooling sensation helps soothe the discomfort, while its pain-relieving properties work to ease tension and promote relaxation.
SUPPORTS RESPIRATORY HEALTH
Peppermint oil’s invigorating aroma isn’t just beneficial for mental clarity; it can also help clear congestion and support respiratory health. Inhaling steam infused with peppermint oil can provide relief from nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and respiratory issues. Its natural decongestant properties help loosen mucus and ease breathing, making it a go-to remedy during the cold and flu season.
EASES MUSCLE PAIN AND TENSION
Whether it’s post-workout soreness or muscle tension from stress, peppermint oil can offer relief. Its cooling sensation helps soothe tired muscles and reduce inflammation when applied topically. Mixing peppermint oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil and massaging it into sore muscles can provide instant relief, promoting relaxation and easing discomfort.
ENHANCES ORAL HEALTH
Peppermint oil isn’t just beneficial for internal health; it’s also great for oral hygiene. Its antimicrobial properties help fight the bacteria that cause bad breath and gum disease, while its refreshing flavour leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh. Adding a drop of peppermint oil to your toothpaste or mouthwash can help enhance your oral care routine and promote a healthy smile.
CONCLUSION
The benefits of peppermint oil are truly remarkable, ranging from soothing digestive issues to promoting mental clarity and enhancing overall well-being. Whether used topically, aromatically, or internally (with caution and proper dilution), peppermint oil is a versatile and effective natural remedy that deserves a place in every home.
Ultra International Inc Appoints Juan Carlos Hurtarte as Business Development Manager LATAM
Juan Carlos Hurtarte has been appointed Business Development Manager LATAM at Ultra International Inc. He brings with him over 18 years of experience in marketing fragrances, essential oils, and ingredients, as well as developing premium perfumes and personal care products across Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and the Caribbean.
His background includes serving as Regional Sales Director for a prominent distributor of essential oils in Mexico and as General Director at a leading producer of fragrances and essential oils in Central America.
“We are thrilled to welcome Juan Carlos to the Ultra family. He brings an exceptional level of expertise and passion to our team and with his extensive background and deep understanding of the Latin American market, we are confident he can drive our growth and expansion in the region,” said Lisa Piccininni, President at Ultra International Inc.
“I’m looking forward to developing the market in Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and the Caribbean, in addition to being an ambassador and representative of the Ultra flag in this region. I’m very excited to have been given the opportunity to lead the growth and commercial expansion of Ultra in a region that I know very well. There is nothing I like better than doing what I am most passionate about in the places where I have grown professionally,” said Juan Carlos.
Ultra International Announces Partnership with Ecospice Ingredients Pvt. Ltd
Ultra International and Ecospice Ingredients PVT. LTD have joined forces to create an exciting partnership and a new portfolio of products. Ultra’s expertise in sourcing organic raw materials and essential oils and its focus on sustainability, combined with Ecospice’s dedication to eco-friendly practices, means this collaboration will provide a sustainable solution to customers.
“Ecospice has worked for many years with a deep-rooted connection with local farmers in a similar way to Ultra. We are proud to have them within our Ultra family,” said Gaëtan Bourdeau, Chief Procurement Officer at Ultra International.
Ecospice Ingredients has a farming background of 40 years and since 2020, the company has taken steps to innovate in R&D producing top quality essential oils, oleoresins, and extracts from the Idukki region of Kerala. Both Ultra and Ecospice have invested in sustainability projects internationally and particularly in India, including conscientious cultivation and giving back to the local community.
“Ecospice Ingredients is thrilled to join forces with Ultra to elevate Indian spice extracts onto the global stage. This partnership signifies a remarkable opportunity to showcase the richness and diversity of Indian spices to a worldwide audience, driving sustainable growth and innovation,” said Sunin Sunny, Chief Executive Officer at Ecospice Ingredients.
Both Ultra and Ecospice have environmentally sound approaches to sourcing and production, and the Ecospice brings extensive knowledge and experience to the partnership. Both companies are also committed to prioritising sustainability whilst upholding the highest standards of quality in their products and processes.
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This collaboration means that together, the two companies can help create positive change in the F&F industry by promoting the use of renewable resources, reducing carbon
footprint, and minimizing waste throughout the supply chain. By harnessing their combined strengths and resources, the partnership will help lead the way towards a more sustainable future.
As consumer demand for eco-conscious products continues to grow, this partnership not only showcases a shared dedication to sustainability but also positions both companies as frontrunners in fostering innovation and environmental stewardship within the F&F industry.
TINA HOTCHIN APPOINTED AS CMO AT ULTRA INTERNATIONAL
Ultra International is pleased to welcome Tina Hotchin as its new Chief Marketing Officer. Tina will be responsible for overseeing and developing the brand, social media, and communication strategies for Ultra. With her notable background in the Flavour and Fragrance (F&F) industry, Tina is widely recognised for her previous role at IFEAT – the International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades – where she successfully managed the Conference speaker programme, website, and communications, in addition to serving as the editor of IFEATWORLD magazine.
“We are thrilled to announce Tina as the newest addition to our team. We have had a very close association with Tina as the Ultra Group has always been a key participant at IFEAT Conferences. I’m confident that Tina’s leadership will be instrumental in fostering brand growth, customer engagement, and our overall market presence,” said Priya Sanganeria, Ultra’s Executive Director.
Reflecting on her appointment, Tina expressed her enthusiasm: “After seven rewarding years with IFEAT, and subsequent projects for clients, I’m excited to embark on this new chapter with Ultra International. I look forward to collaborating with the company’s talented, dynamic, and diverse team as we drive forward our marketing initiatives.”
ATELIER ULTRA OPENS IN NEW YORK
Ultra International has opened an Atelier at its New York facility, establishing its second creative space following the initial one in London, UK. The company is set to introduce additional ateliers in various cities, expanding beyond its current locations to include, but not limited to, destinations such as France, Tokyo, Istanbul, and Singapore. This initiative reflects Ultra International’s commitment to having a global presence.
“Atelier Ultra NY is a unique space that encourages ideas and creativity as well as teaching the nuances of essential oils and natural ingredients. We are delighted to open the second one here in the US,” said Lisa Piccininni, President at Ultra International Inc, at the grand opening on February 1st, 2024.
As well as being a place to meet with customers, the Atelier enables Ultra to perform olfactive analysis on samples and products and in time, it will evolve into a futuristic hub to enable us to perform small tests and carry out formulation development. It is also a portal for clients to learn, discover, experiment, and create.
ULTRA INTERNATIONAL B.V. NAMES THOMAS LORENZO AMANTEA AS VP OF SALES – FRANCE AND ITALY
Thomas Amantea has joined Ultra International as Vice President of Sales for France and Italy. He will also act as a consultant perfumer on some projects that involve blend creations and olfactive consultancy.
Thomas was cradled by a dual Franco-Italian culture. Between Parisian advertisements for the great perfume classics and Italian raw materials, perfume entered his life bilaterally. He worked as project manager and perfumer in France and around the world, working for small companies as well as multinationals. In 2022 Thomas received his perfumer certification from the Symrise Perfumery School.
Ultra’s Managing Director, Ravi Sanganeria, said: “We are proud to welcome our new upcoming star perfumer based out of Paris. Thomas will take on clients in Paris and will cover the rest of France. He will also develop other key markets in Italy, Spain, and North Africa for natural essential oils as well as perfumery and fragrance compounds. Thomas has an amazing sense of aroma identification along with a passion for naturals which will further strengthen our presence in Europe.”
“As a former perfumer, my love for scents couldn’t have been better served than with Ultra’s natural raw materials. I’m thrilled to start this exciting new role, knowing that it will present both challenges and opportunities. I genuinely think that this journey is more than just a sales venture; I see it as an exploration where I will connect with clients with the authentic essence of nature. I look forward to showcasing Ultra’s premium raw materials, ensuring each encounter is not just a transaction but a fragrant experience. I must say, it’s been quite some time since I have been so animated about a project like this! The immense potential for growth and development fuels my eagerness to contribute to Ultra’s success story with an even greater passion and dedication that drew me to the world of perfumery,” said Thomas.
Ultra International B.V.
