Flavor Industry Leader Stays Rooted in Israel, Citing National Importance

Keren Cohen Hazon, chairwoman, CEO, and controlling shareholder of flavor and fragrance company Torpaz Industries, has emphasized her commitment to maintaining the company's headquarters and primary production bases in Israel, despite potential operational challenges and investor preferences for offshore locations. Cohen Hazon, ranked ninth among Israeli executives by Globes, views Israeli industry as a crucial asset for economic independence and high employment, stating, "If we don't protect our country, we won't have a country." She believes that international partners do not truly desire Israeli companies abroad and feels safest in Israel.

Torpaz Industries has experienced significant growth under Cohen Hazon's leadership, transforming from a small factory in Holon into a global enterprise through a strategy of mergers and acquisitions. The company now operates in over 95 countries, serves more than 4,900 international clients, and employs approximately 1,000 people across 30 global sites. Its stock has surged, valuing the company at around NIS 6.5 billion. In the first half of the year, revenues grew by 40.5% to $174 million, with net profit increasing by 80.9% to $19.2 million. Recent acquisitions include three European deals and the significant $95 million purchase of US-based Phoenix Flavors & Fragrances, a move aimed at positioning Torpaz among the top ten global companies in its field.

Cohen Hazon acknowledged difficulties in the Israeli industrial sector, citing government-imposed challenges and the need for long-term strategic thinking, drawing parallels to the US government's recent investments to reshore manufacturing. She expressed hope that Israel would prioritize its industry. Beyond business, Cohen Hazon has engaged in philanthropy, pledging 1% of her personal holdings, valued at approximately $13 million, to Israeli hospitals, including Soroka, which was severely impacted during Operation Iron Swords.

Reflecting on her background, Cohen Hazon described herself as a "simple farmer" raised in the fields of Ramat Hasharon. She credits her father, a prominent industrialist, with instilling in her business acumen through early exposure to negotiations and detailed record-keeping. After his untimely death at 58, she stepped into a critical role managing family business negotiations at age 23, solidifying her career path. She later gained experience at Agan Chemicals, where she learned the importance of human relationships in business, before co-founding Aromor, which was eventually sold for $100 million. Her current venture, Torpaz, acquired for a mere $2.5 million in 2011, has become her most significant success, with her stake now worth approximately $700 million.