Charles Faram Impact Report - Flipbook - Page 5
In 1865 Charles Shacklock Faram established a Hop Merchant business in Worcester at the pinnacle of hop growing
acreage in the UK. Beer production in the UK relied on British hop varieties to produce the traditional flavours
associated with the beer styles of the time.
The company remained in the family until a management buyout took place in 1943 and a new board was established, with Frank Leek as the
Managing Director. In 1984, after the Hops Marketing Board was disbanded the business was bought by the Hawkins Family, hop growers
from Herefordshire who retain ownership to this day. In 1987 the company moved to its existing premises at Newland in Worcestershire. We
have expanded our reach internationally, establishing offices and cold storage facilities in the US hop capital Yakima, Washington, in Poland
and in Ontario, Canada.
While renowned for a vast range of hops from around the world, we have also carved a niche in developing our own hop varieties. Since
2009, our Hop Development Programme has pioneered new aromas and flavours while addressing challenges like disease resistance and
sustainability. This meticulous process begins with 10,000 new seedlings every year, whittled down over 5 years of trials to find just one
variety fit for commercial release.
Our commitment to the environment is deep rooted. The team are involved in collaborative research with other programmes and
institutions for climate proofing, and sustainability solutions. Beyond hops, we serve as the original one-stop shop for brewers. Our extensive
inventory includes malts, brewing aids, yeasts, purees, flavourings, sensory training kits, and lab equipment.
