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Built over time, refined through generations

From a family-run perfumery to a global fragrance partner, our story is defined by how we've evolved.

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Built on independence

Carvansons was founded in 1941 as a collaboration between Frank Carter and Charles Evans, along with their respective sons — hence the name Car-Van-Sons.

Frank had a background in chemistry and had previously worked at Prices Candle Company and PZ Cussons. In 1942, he became the sole owner of Carvansons, helping to shape the direction of the business in its early years.

Originally based at an old bleach works in Eccles, Greater Manchester, Carvansons later relocated to Hollins, Bury in the early 1950s as demand grew.

From the outset, the business was shaped by practical knowledge, independence and a clear focus on quality. Principles that continue to underpin Carvansons today.

Early growth demanded practical thinking.
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Shaped by innovation

During the war years, access to key raw materials was limited. Rather than compromise on quality, Carvansons began producing essential ingredients in-house.

This included work with aromatic chemicals, as well as attempts to grow and extract materials such as lavender. Not everything worked first time, but the approach was consistent: maintain quality and keep production moving.

The company also operated a small unit in Somerset, extracting materials such as tree moss and olibanum gum. One of the original copper stills used in this process is still on display at the head office today.

That way of working still underpins the business today. Practical, adaptable and focused on the right result.

In 1968, Frank was joined by his son-in-law, John Whowell, as the business continued to develop. At this stage, the business remained a small, close-knit operation, focused on the UK market.

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Expanding with purpose

In the 1980s as the business matured, Carvansons began to focus more actively on international markets. Early expansion started in Thailand, followed by Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Middle East, with growth continuing into surrounding regions over time. Working with local agents provided insight into regional markets, customs and trends, helping to shape a more informed and adaptable approach.

As the business extended its international reach, it turned its next investment towards building for the future.

In 2022, the business relocated from Bury to a purpose-built site in Haslingden, Lancashire, supporting increased capacity and future growth. 

Progress, built on experience.
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Innovating for the future

The new site included modern perfumery laboratories, customer sampling areas and dedicated manufacturing and warehousing facilities.

More recent investments have focused on analytical, quality-control instrumentation and an automated dosing system to support efficiency, consistency and scalability.

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A family business, by design

Carvansons remains a family-owned business, now in its fourth generation.

John Whowell, second generation of the family, is still involved with the day-to-day operations. Managing Director Luke, the third generation of the family, has been involved in the business from a young age, learning the fundamentals from the ground up.

This continuity brings a long-term perspective, with decisions made with care, consistency and a clear understanding of what matters to clients.

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Carvansons' purpose-built site in Haslingden, Lancashire

Today at Carvansons

Today, Carvansons operates globally, working with brands across a range of sectors to develop fragrances that balance creativity, performance and commercial reality.

Our role is not simply to supply fragrance, but to work in partnership, bringing experience, judgement and flexibility to every brief.

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Begin your fragrance journey, from early inspiration to full technical brief, we’ll work together to craft the scent that defines it. 

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