By Jim Mwanda
At the 8th East Africa Pharma Expo opening in Nairobi today, Alcohols Ltd, one of the United Kingdom’s longest-standing family-owned distillers and chemical suppliers, is highlighting a dual strength that has kept it competitive for over two centuries.
Technical excellence in neutral alcohol production and reliability as a chemical distribution partner across multiple industries.
The company’s international reputation is built on the foundations of Langley Distillery, home to some of the oldest operational copper pot stills in the UK, dating back to the early 1800s.
Today, Langley continues to produce award-winning London Dry Gin and bespoke spirits that serve clients worldwide.
Its expertise extends beyond finished beverages, Alcohols Ltd supplies neutral grain, molasses, rye, and barley spirits, distilled at 96% ABV, for use in beverages, cosmetics, tinctures, and pharmaceutical applications.
Packaged in flexible volumes ranging from 5 liters to full tankers, these products are designed to serve both small-scale operators and industrial buyers.
The company has also invested in distillery consultancy services, offering technical guidance on plant design, recipe development, and production scaling.
For East Africa’s emerging pharmaceutical and consumer goods manufacturers, this combination of product and knowledge transfer provides a unique advantage: access to global-grade expertise without the barriers often associated with large multinationals.
Alcohols Ltd’s global sourcing strategy is another strength it is showcasing at the expo. By working directly with growers of botanicals, from juniper to citrus and specialty herbs, the company ensures consistency, sustainability, and compliance with international standards.
These supply chain relationships are increasingly relevant for East African producers seeking to expand into premium categories while maintaining regulatory compliance in export markets.Behind the distilling heritage lies a broader industrial platform.
Founded in 1955 as part of the Palmer Group, Alcohols Ltd has grown into a full-scale chemical distribution partner, servicing sectors that include healthcare, packaging, automotive, coatings, and specialty manufacturing.
Its sites in Rugby and Oldbury, in the UK, provide bulk storage, drumming, and re-packing facilities that meet ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environmental), and ISO 45001 (Health and Safety) standards.
The company is also a recipient of the Ecovadis Gold Award for sustainability, underscoring its long-term commitment to responsible operations.
As East Africa strengthens its pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing capacity, Alcohols Ltd is positioning itself as a trusted global partner — combining the stability of a heritage company with the flexibility to deliver tailored solutions.
By exhibiting in Nairobi, the firm is sending a clear message: its expertise in both premium neutral spirits and industrial chemical distribution is available to support regional growth, innovation, and international trade alignment.
