Our History

The story of Dicksons began in 1854, when the company was established by James Dickson. When Charles Lloyd bought into the Company in 1911, Dicksons manufactured cordial, vinegar, and wines. However, as the company was passed between the next three generations of the Lloyd family that were to follow, its focus changed with the evolving market.

From the day Charles  joined the Company, the family took a flexible approach to their business. Listening to clients and competitors, and staying alert to opportunities, Charles, together with his son Charles, soon moved into the wholesaling and distribution industry, focusing largely on confectionery products.

Having established their speciality, the Lloyds got to know their market. Ken Lloyd, son of Charles, was the first to recognize the potential in the Australian corporate petroleum and convenience retailing industries. The links Ken and his son Richard Lloyd built in the late 1980’s now see them service a market sector valued at over $250 million.

In 1995, having consolidated their position as Australia’s premier wholesale distributor, the Company changed its name to Dicksons trading as National Distribution (VIC). In the hands of the 4th generation of the Lloyd family, the Company today continues the traditions of leadership and personal service on which Dicksons’ success has been achieved.

Since 1998, Dicksons has proudly been an active member of National Confectionery Wholesalers Ltd (NCW).