A never-before-seen archive from Bendicks has revealed the story of chocolate in Britain, offering a glimpse into the nation's relationship with the sweet treat and how it has evolved over the last 96 years.
The company was founded in London by Oscar Benson and Colonel 'Bertie' Dickson in 1930, and the recipe for its Bittermints has remained the same since 1931. Bendicks was granted a Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth II in 1962, which was renewed by King Charles III in 2024.
Wartime advertising and austerity
The Bendicks archive contains a trove of advertisements, packaging and promotional materials that give a snapshot of different eras, from wartime Britain to austerity. One highlight is a Second World War advert telling customers "No coupons required if sugar exchanged", offering 2lbs of chocolate in return for a 1lb packet of sugar.
In the same leaflet, Sporting & Military Chocolate was advertised as an energy food for activities including hunting, mountaineering and field days, with pocket-sized packets available.
From scarcity to gift culture
As Britain moved beyond wartime scarcity and austerity, the archives capture the importance placed on gifts, hospitality and occasion. Presentation became as much a part of the package as the chocolates themselves, with one leaflet introducing Bendick's Galaxy of Lovely Gift Boxes featuring an array of ornate, handmade designs.
These were intended as keepsakes to be appreciated after the confectionery inside had gone. Another piece from the archive refers to "the modern vogue for keeping chocolates always at hand". Decorative containers could be refilled to offer to guests or "hide one's private indulgence".
Craftsmanship and emotion
Martin, who has worked with Bendicks for over 25 years, said: "There was a real sense of craftsmanship in the factory. I remember the circular chocolate gift boxes were all made by hand and were very much something you would buy for a special occasion.
"There are little things about the factory that have always stayed with me too - particularly the smell. As soon as you opened the door, you could smell the Bittermints being made. The mint was so strong that the mint products even had their own separate area. I think chocolate has a place in so many different occasions because there's a lot of emotion attached to it. It might be something you give to someone, something you have with other people or just something you reach for yourself.
"That's part of the appeal - there aren't really any rules around it. You can have one chocolate or find yourself popping back into the kitchen for five. It's such a simple thing, but it has this ability to bring a little bit of happiness to an otherwise ordinary moment."
