Our Vision & Mission

To be a leading international manufacturer and distributor of inspiring products and exceptional services for the life sciences and performance chemicals markets.

We will achieve our vision by continuing to value our strong, caring relationships with our key stakeholders – our employees, customers, suppliers, industry bodies and communities.

We have an enviable past and will deliver a sustainable future by delivering expertise, innovation and excellence in everything we do.

  • Be innovative and ambitious
    Be nimble and flexible
    Be insightful and proactive


  • Be passionate and have fun
    Be collaborative and connect
    Be helpful and supportive

  • Communicate openly and honestly
    Focus on customers first
    Take initiative and deliver

    1935

    Cornelius is founded in the City of London by Dr. Ernst Gustav Cornelius as E.G Cornelius - a commodity trading business

    1942

    The Cornelius Chemical Company distribution business is established with Sally Gaetsky as MD

    1976

    Dr Cornelius passes away

    1978

    Miss Gaetsky retires and Ken Prior takes over as MD

    1986

    Cornelius is subject to a management buy-out led by Mr. Prior

    1994

    Cornelius relocates to its current Woodside facility in Hertfordshire to enable expansion

    1997

    Cornelius becomes the first distribution company in the UK to open a Cosmetics applications laboratory at the site

    2006

    A new Cornelius Specialties facility is opened in Haverhill, Suffolk supplying the global ocular and dental markets

    2007

    Cornelius expands into Poland and China

    2008

    Mr. Prior retires as Managing Director and Dr. Neville Prior becomes Chairman & Managing Director

    2011

    Cornelius expands into France, India and Nordic regions

    2012

    Cornelius expands into Russia & Nordics

    2013

    Darren Spiby is appointed Managing Director of Cornelius

    2016

    Darren Spiby is appointed Group CEO

    2019

    Cornelius Specialties and Group offices integrate under a new manufacturing and distribution strategy - ‘One Cornelius’

    Any questions? Get in touch today!