Independent flavor manufacturer I.T.S has appointed two seasoned professionals to spearhead a newly established department dedicated to health and wellness initiatives.
This strategic decision is a response to the increasing demand for creative nutrition options. The introduction of this division is anticipated to enhance the company’s expertise in areas such as sports nutrition, functional foods, and overall wellness.
Mark Nicholson and Paschalina Papadogkona will oversee this new department, taking on the roles of head of performance and senior performance for health and wellness, respectively.
Nicholson arrives with more than three decades of experience in the sports and performance nutrition arena. As an accomplished leader in business, he has forged significant partnerships with prominent global brands within the industry.
His extensive background encompasses sports nutrition, vitamins, minerals, and supplements, as well as botanicals, nutraceuticals, and functional foods, coupled with a keen insight into emerging consumer behaviors.
Papadogkona brings with her 15 years of expertise in product development and innovation. Holding a BSc in Chemistry, a BSc in Food Science and Technology, and an MSc in Human Nutrition from the University of Reading, she has successfully led the creation and launch of an array of innovative products in sports nutrition, wellness, and functional foods throughout the UK and Europe.
This announcement follows I.T.S’s plans for significant expansion, which includes the development of one of the largest natural flavor manufacturing facilities in the UK, a venture unveiled earlier this year.
An investment exceeding £10 million is earmarked for the establishment of an 8.2-acre site near Hungerford. This new location will enable 20 times the production capacity for both liquid and powdered flavors compared to the existing facility in Newbury, as well as scalable production of extracts and compounds.
With the considerable size of the new site, there is ample potential for future expansions as the company explores growth opportunities in the health and nutrition sectors.
Mike Bagshaw, the owner and founder of I.T.S, stated: “Health and wellness has become one of the fastest-growing parts of our business as brands continue to innovate in sports nutrition, functional foods and better-for-you products, with flavors being a key component.
“Our customers are looking for a flavor partner that combines technical expertise with creativity along with commercial understanding, and that’s exactly what Paschalina and Mark bring to the team.”
