Quest International was a major producer of flavors, fragrances and food ingredients with sales of £560 million in 2005[1] before its acquisition by rival Givaudan.
Quest created and marketed flavours and fragrance concepts and solutions for the fast-moving consumer goods industries.
With operations in 31 countries, Quest made ingredients for foods, snacks, beverages, personal care, fine fragrances, and home hygiene products.
The company soon hit financial problems and for the next few years survives by distilling caraway seeds and other materials for essential oils.
The manufacture of aromatic chemicals from which essences and perfume compounds emerged - the basis of the future industry on which the company was to flourish and become today's Quest International.
He and his son - also named W A van Dorp - were to have a huge impact on the future of the company by adopting more modern approaches to chemistry.
1939 The second world war forces production of glycerine at CFN to a trickle and while times are difficult, the factory concentrates of anti-oxidants which are essential for food preservation.
Flavourings and vitamin C are also produced (at one stage, staff collected wood from the countryside to keep the factory's boilers going).
1972 The partnership structure of the company is changed so that N.V. Chemische Fabriek "Naarden" becomes a holding company, Naarden International N.V. 1983 Mr van Dorp junior steps down as chairman of the Supervisory Board, ending a long link with the van Dorp family.
1993-1996 A large number of small specialist companies are acquired, strengthening the product and technology portfolio of fragrances, flavourings and food ingredients.
2004 Ireland based Kerry Group acquires the Food Ingredient Division 2005 Quest International celebrates its 100th anniversary.
2006 Quest introduces a new corporate identity and branding, relaunching itself as a company that 'creates what captivates' with a global advertising programme using a 'black and white' theme.