Knife Wizard, the importer and distributor of I.O.Shen Mastergrade knives and knife sharpening equipment, has expanded its distribution network by opening an office in the US.

"I'm constantly receiving e-mails from people who've bought an IO Shen knife from the UK whilst on holiday or working but are unable to purchase one in their home country," says commercial director, Natalie McVeigh.

"We're lucky enough to have one of the most recognisable chefs in the world - Jamie Oliver - using IO Shen knives, so it made sense to capitalise on this before someone else did."

Initially, the company will be trading from ioshen-usa.com and serving the market directly, but, in time, it says it hopes to build up a network of distributors.

For customers in the U.S.A., please visit: www.ioshen-usa.com