Exhibiting at International Food & Drink Event (IFE) 2025

H. Forman & Son, based in London, United Kingdom, is the oldest producer of smoked salmon in the world and a celebrated name in the British food industry. Known for its craftsmanship, heritage, and uncompromising quality, the company has been a pioneer in traditional fish curing methods, especially its signature London Cure smoked salmon.

Brief History

Founded in 1905 by Aaron “Harry” Forman, a Jewish immigrant from Eastern Europe, H. Forman & Son brought traditional fish smoking techniques to the East End of London. Over four generations, the company has remained family-owned and preserved its artisanal values. Today, under the leadership of Lance Forman, the business continues to champion hand-crafted production in a modern facility adjacent to the Olympic Park in Stratford.

Core Business

H. Forman & Son operates primarily as a producer and wholesaler of premium smoked and specialty fish products. It supplies to luxury hotels, top restaurants, food halls, airlines, and high-end retailers both in the UK and internationally. The company also serves private customers through its online shop and offers bespoke food preparations for catering and corporate events.

Product and Service Offerings

The company’s signature products include:

• Smoked Fish:

  • London Cure Smoked Scottish Salmon: A PGI-certified product cured using salt, oak-smoked and sliced by hand
  • Gravadlax: Scandinavian-style dill-cured salmon
  • Smoked Trout, Eel, and other traditional varieties

• Specialty Fish and Prepared Foods:

  • Beetroot Gravadlax, Caviar, Fish Terrines
  • Bespoke products tailored for fine dining establishments

• Retail and Private Label:

  • Branded retail packs for gourmet outlets
  • Private label production for upscale retailers

• Event Catering & Venue Hire:

  • Operates a riverside venue at its headquarters for private and corporate events

Specialisation and Core USP

H. Forman & Son is defined by:

• Its Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for London Cure Smoked Salmon — one of only a few British foods to receive this distinction
• Use of Scottish farmed salmon and a traditional curing process with no sugar or artificial preservatives
• Hand-filleting and slicing by expert craftsmen, preserving traditional techniques
• A blend of heritage and innovation, combining artisanal methods with modern compliance standards

Financials

As a privately held company, H. Forman & Son’s financial data is not publicly detailed. However, Companies House filings indicate a stable revenue stream estimated between £10–15 million annually, with a significant share from high-end B2B and export channels.

Shipments Data

According to data from platforms like ImportYeti and Volza, H. Forman & Son has engaged in over 80 international shipments in the past 3 years. Key export markets include:

• United States
• France
• Germany
• United Arab Emirates
• Singapore

Their shipments largely comprise vacuum-packed smoked salmon fillets, sliced retail packs, and bespoke cured fish preparations for premium foodservice clients.

Target Market

The company targets:

• Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels
• Gourmet retailers and food halls
• International airlines and cruise lines
• Discerning private clients and fine food lovers

They also cater to corporate hospitality events, embassies, and royal functions.

Capabilities

• A purpose-built smokehouse facility in London with modern hygiene standards
• In-house team of master smokers and slicers
• On-site packaging and cold storage infrastructure
• Capacity for custom product development and private labeling

Certifications and Compliance Records

H. Forman & Son meets and exceeds UK and international food safety standards:

• PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) certification for London Cure Smoked Salmon
• SALSA-certified production (Safe and Local Supplier Approval)
• Regular audits by FSA (Food Standards Agency)
• Compliance with EU and FDA standards for exports

Customer Testimonials

The company has received endorsements from renowned chefs and institutions, including:

• Fortnum & Mason, Harrods, and Selfridges, which carry its branded products
• Featured in menus of Michelin-starred establishments
• Praised in media by culinary figures like Nigella Lawson and Rick Stein

Online customer reviews consistently highlight:

• Exceptional freshness and texture
• Authentic flavor without overpowering smoke
• Elegant presentation and gift-ready packaging

Major Achievements

• Oldest smoked salmon producer in the world still in operation
• First smoked salmon producer to receive PGI certification
• Official supplier to Royal Households and international embassies
• Hosted Heads of State and Olympic committees at its London facility
• Expanded into online gourmet retail and global distribution channels

H. Forman & Son stands as a beacon of British culinary heritage, fusing tradition with excellence. Its unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, quality, and authenticity has earned it a place among the finest food producers in the world.