On Friday 11th September 2026, we marked a remarkable moment in the history of Demos Ciclitira as we celebrated 100 years in business, alongside another extraordinary milestone, 200 years of George Harker.
The celebration was held at our Essex premises and brought together colleagues from Demos Ciclitira, George Harker and the Gerald McDonald Group, together with past employees and guests. It was an opportunity not only to look back at the history and heritage behind these two long-established names, but also to celebrate the people and relationships that continue to take them forward.
Marking 100 Years of Demos Ciclitira
Demos Ciclitira was established in 1926 and has evolved considerably over the past century.
Today, we continue our long association with the food industry, supplying and processing dried fruits, grains, pulses and other ingredients from our facility in Essex.
The centenary is particularly significant following Demos becoming part of the Gerald McDonald Group in 2025, beginning another chapter in the company’s long history.
Friday’s event brought together people from across the wider group to celebrate that heritage and look forward to the future.
A Remarkable 200 Years for George Harker
The occasion also celebrated an even rarer achievement.
George Harker was established in 1826 and is celebrating its bicentenary in 2026, marking an extraordinary 200 years in business.
During his speech, Maxim McDonald reflected on just how unusual it is for businesses to achieve such longevity.
Of an estimated 300 million businesses worldwide, only around 10,000 to 20,000 are thought to have reached 100 years, while estimates suggest that only around 400 to 500 businesses worldwide have survived for 200 years.
Whatever the precise figures, both anniversaries represent exceptional milestones and provided plenty of reason to celebrate.
Unveiling Our Commemorative Plaque
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the unveiling of a special commemorative plaque marking the centennial of Demos Ciclitira and bicentennial of George Harker.
The plaque was unveiled by Gerald A. McDonald, with speeches from Rebecca King, Managing Director of Demos Ciclitira, Maxim McDonald and Braintree Councillor Richard van Dulken.
Guests then joined together for a celebratory toast to both businesses and their respective 100th and 200th anniversaries.
The plaque will provide a permanent reminder of an important moment in the history of both companies.
An Afternoon of Celebration
Following the formalities, it was time to celebrate.
Guests enjoyed an afternoon of live music, wood-fired pizzas, fish and chips, artisan ice cream, with drinks provided by Tipsy & Bubbles.
More importantly, the event provided an opportunity for colleagues, friends and guests to spend time together and celebrate the people who have contributed to the businesses over the years.
Our thanks go to everyone who joined us and to everyone involved in making the event such a memorable occasion.
A special thank you also goes to photographer Tina Wing, who captured the celebrations throughout the afternoon.
Celebrating Our Past, Looking to the Future
Reaching 100 years gives us an opportunity to reflect on how far Demos Ciclitira has come since 1926.
While the business, food industry and world around us have changed enormously during that time, long-standing relationships, specialist knowledge, quality and service remain at the heart of what we do.
As part of the Gerald McDonald Group, we are now looking forward to the next chapter in the Demos story.
