Our history Primula is a cheese with a difference. We’re owned by the Kavli Trust, a charitable organisation that donates millions of pounds every year to projects that enhance people’s lives. As responsible as we are moreish, we’re dedicated to finding and funding the humanitarian, research, and cultural initiatives that make a positive impact on people’s lives. Every time you squeeze, spread, and dip, you’re supporting worthy causes right here in the UK and across the world.
1872 Olav Kavli Born in 1872, young Olav grew up on a farm in the small village of Aro, on the
Norwegian coast. 1893 Kavli est. 1893 Kavli was established in 1893 when Olav Kavli opened a tiny (but tasty) cheese store in Bergen, Norway. 1924 The world’s first In 1924, Olav opened his first factory. This is where the magic happened and he developed the world’s first spreadable cheese — Primula! 1929 Our UK launch We made it across the North Sea and into homes around the UK. 1931 Primula goes global More cheese, please! The 30’s see Primula spread across Scandinavia and Europe. Next stop: the rest of the world. 1962 Kavli Trust est. With no heirs to leave Primula to, Knut Kavli (Kavli’s second generation) established the Kavli Trust to support our charitable work.