Only a brave visionary would start a business importing ‘sunshine food’ from France within months of the end of World War II.

But with rationing still in place and food scarce, Raoul Amar saw an opportunity to widen the UK’s supply line with produce from a base in Marseille to a depot in London.

The successful move, which came as rivals struggled well into the 1950s, established his fledgling business as a key player in feeding the nation.

And when he imported the first tinned and jarred olives in 1955 it was a taste of a brighter future for British families.

Now in the capable hands of Raoul’s grandsons Rob and James, fine food from across all six continents make up some of the firm’s 1,200 lines from 70 suppliers, from antipasti and garlic purée to the highest quality tinned tomato.

RH Amar was also the pioneer for importing canned mushrooms and Caesar dressing into the UK, and is always looking to innovate by adding the next big ingredient to its mouthwatering portfolio.

“It’s hard to imagine a home in the UK that doesn’t have at least one of the store cupboard staples we supply,” says Managing Director Rob Amar. “We’re also proud to still have the same family values of attention to detail and caring for our brand partners and customers that we had at the start.”

The business, which celebrated its 80th anniversary last year, now includes Del Monte, Schwartz, Kikkoman, French’s, Weetabix and Mutti among a high-profile list of brands spanning every area of foodservice.

He says: “We were voted Best Companies UK Food and Drink company to work for in 2022 for our investment in people and wellbeing. They are great accolades that mean a lot and are complemented by the sheer quality of our suppliers’ products.

“The reality is that almost every kitchen has our products and every table has our sauces. We play a starring role in foodservice and because we’re family-owned, we’re agile when it comes to making decisions.”

The philanthropic and fearless approach of the founder is clearly in the genes. The firm’s colleagues are recognised, valued and supported as part of its Doing Business Better strategy, which also includes a 10% donation of its annual profits to charity.