Witham MP calls in on major local business for post lockdown update

Priti Patel MP, called in at the Kimia Division of Hayman Group, the alcohol distributor at Eastways Park, Witham on Friday (14th August 2020). The Witham MP was given a brief tour of the premises by Managing Director and co-owner, James Hayman, followed by a meeting in which Priti was given a general business update including how the company has been working to supply alcohol for hand sanitisers since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. To date enough alcohol has been supplied to make 125 million x 50ml bottles as well as other medical supplies.

This discussion was followed by an update on the UK/European alcohol market, the impact of Covid-19 and looking at how the market will operate from 2021. The Hayman Group is a family run business, which has in part operated out of Witham since 1980. The company is also known for its Hayman’s Gin brand, which is distilled in London before being bottled in Witham.

Commenting after her visit, Priti said: “I am impressed with the way that the Hayman Group has coped with the lockdown and by how quickly they are coming to terms with the new economic conditions now that it has been eased. Their support in providing alcohol for hand sanitisers, a product that was in huge demand during the pandemic, has been invaluable.

“The post lockdown challenges are difficult for every business, large or small. However, the UK economy is fundamentally strong and although it has taken a big hit, I am confident that it will bounce back, ably assisted by companies like Hayman. I hope that local people will give strong support to businesses based in their own backyard.”

James Hayman, MD and co-owner of the Hayman Group said: “My thanks to Priti for taking time out to visit us to find out more about how we have been operating in recent times as well as being part of a discussion about the future.”

The visit was arranged in conjunction with the Witham Chamber of Commerce.

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